LIMA'17 Best Platform For Domestic Defence Industry Players To Promote Product, Technology

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 (Bernama) -- The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2017 (LIMA'17) next year will be the best platform for domestic defence industry players to promote their products and technologies. Malaysian Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussien (four left) said the exhibition would also be the best place for them to collaborate strategically and manufacture hardware locally with international companies. "We are continuing to build up domestic defence industry, seeking to develop local expertise while continuing to source for 'big ticket' imports from global giant (big company). "The defence industry is obviously a potential growth area for our national economy, including in terms of job creation, technology transfers and increased human capital," he told reporters after the Official Launch Of LIMA'17 here, Thursday. Hishammuddin said about 40,000 trade visitors and 550 companies from 38 countries were expected to participate in the exhibition starting March 21 to 25 next year in Langkawi island of Malaysia's northern state Kedah. "At least 80 aircraft, as well as 68 warships and boat, will be on display during the exhibition. "The 13th edition of LIMA in 2015 was a record-breaking success with the participation of 512 companies from 36 countries with 39,684 trade visitors," he said. Meanwhile, Hishammuddin also announced that EN Project (M) Sdn Bhd as the new official organiser for LIMA'17. The five-day aerospace exhibition would be held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre, while Resort World Langkawi would host the maritime exhibition. LIMA, which has been held biennially since 1999, provides the maritime and aerospace industry with unique platform for networking and business opportunities, and functions as a gateway to Asia Pacific's dynamic markets. (photoBERNAMA) --BERNAMA