KUALA LUMPUR: The organisation of the Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA) 2022 and the Asian Security Services Exhibition (Natsec) 2022 have set the benchmark for large-scale and international exhibitions in the future, says Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

       The Senior Minister (Security) said the DSA and Natsec Asia were the first large-scale exhibitions held following the Covid-19 pandemic.

       "As one of the five best exhibitions related to defence and security recognised worldwide, we were very concerned to ensure the exhibition was organised successfully.

       "The four-day exhibition went smoothly with the support of various parties, including the Home Ministry (KDN) which also participated in the organisation," he said during the closing of the DSA and NATSEC Asia 2022 here on Thursday (March 31).

       Hishammuddin, who is also Defence Minister, said although the exhibition was not open to the public, it managed to attract a total of 33,147 visitors.

       He said that instead of just showcasing equipment, what was more important was that discussions were conducted face to face.

       "We are now preparing for the next DSA and Natsec Asia which will take place from May 6-9, 2024," he said, adding that he was also confident of organising the Langkawi International Maritime and Air Exhibition (Lima) next year.

       "We are confident of being able to make Lima a success following the success of DSA and Natsec Asia 2022.

       Meanwhile Deputy Home Minister (II) Datuk Jonathan Yasin said the exhibitions were a major endeavour that involved the utmost determination, planning and coordination.

       "The Home Ministry's solemn duty is to protect and safeguard all matters related to national security – many of which involve cross-border issues and bilateral cooperation.

       "For instance, in recent times, my ministry has been actively involved in areas which include fighting modern-day slavery, human trafficking and forced labour.

       "We have also been making reforms to improve our management of foreign workers," he said, adding that they were also currently developing the National Integrated Immigration System (Niise) and the National Digital Identity (IDN) with extensive use of technology.

       He said these were just examples of how events such as DSA and Natsec Asia could greatly contribute towards global inter-communication in dealing with real-world problems.