LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA – It wasn’t just another military showcase at LIMA ’25. This year, it was personal. As the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 unfolded at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim unveiled something truly homegrown – Ribat, Malaysia’s first locally designed and built high mobility light tactical vehicle (HMLTV).
But this wasn’t merely the launch of another defence asset. It was a moment filled with pride, purpose, and vision. The name Ribat itself was chosen by the Prime Minister, echoing a deep-rooted symbolism of protection, sacrifice, and national pride. In Islamic tradition, ribat represents the act of guarding the nation’s borders with unwavering faith and resolve – a fitting title for a vehicle designed to serve and protect.
Built entirely by local hands at Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd, Ribat is more than a machine; it is a statement. A statement that Malaysians are ready – not just to use technology, but to create it. It stands as a testament to local talent, grit, and innovation, forged in engineering facilities in Seremban and Sepang.
“This isn’t just a vehicle – this is proof that Malaysia can,” said Datuk Seri Mohd Nizam Kasa, Mildef’s managing director, reflecting the pride that resonated across the venue.
During the ceremony, PM Anwar also witnessed the signing of two key partnerships that signal Malaysia’s growing defence collaboration in the region. Mildef signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Indonesia’s leading defence firm, PT Pindad, paving the way for joint exports, tech transfer, and regional integration. At the same event, Mildef also formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with STRIDE, a vital research arm under the Defence Ministry, to develop two more fully local tactical vehicles.
This marks a turning point in Malaysia’s defence industry, where local ingenuity meets global opportunity.
“Ribat isn’t just about defence. It’s about self-reliance. It’s about Malaysians solving Malaysian problems with Malaysian solutions,” said PM Anwar. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Armed Forces Chief Gen Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar stood alongside him, witnessing a proud chapter unfold in the country’s industrial history.
With its modular ballistic protection and readiness for patrols, convoys, and special operations, Ribat isn’t just built for the battlefield—it’s built for the future. As Malaysia steps boldly into the defence spotlight, Ribat drives home one message loud and clear: we are ready.
