Latest news with #AsgharKhan
Malaysia Sun
12-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysia Sun
Fighter jet deal with U.S. allies signals regional resistance to China's South China Sea expansion
Kuala Lumpur [Malaysia], July 12 (ANI): In a significant yet understated move to strengthen its air capabilities in the South China Sea, Malaysia has secured U.S. approval to acquire up to 33 F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait, a development that signals a quiet but firm recalibration of regional power dynamics, The Eurasian Times reports. The transfer, greenlit under Washington's Arms Export Control Act, marks a strategic U.S. nod to Malaysia's military modernisation without triggering an overt geopolitical showdown with China. Royal Malaysian Air Force Chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan confirmed the approval on June 17, framing it as a critical upgrade amid rising threats in the Indo-Pacific. Although Malaysia publicly maintains neutrality, this defense boost, covertly supported by the U.S., reveals growing discomfort with China's coercive actions, particularly near Malaysia's maritime and airspace zones. As per The Eurasian Times, Beijing's belligerent behaviour continues to destabilise the region. In May alone, China dispatched 70 warships and two carrier strike groups from the Yellow Sea to the South China Sea, aggressively encircling Taiwan. Similar tactics have been used in Malaysian waters, including the provocative 2021 incursion of 16 Chinese military aircraft, prompting a formal diplomatic protest. With its fighter fleet thinned by the retirement of MiG-29s and BAE Hawks, Malaysia's acquisition of the well-maintained Kuwaiti Hornets--many upgraded with modern radars and electronic warfare systems--fills a glaring defense gap. U.S. support here is neither accidental nor merely logistical; it's part of a broader strategy to empower regional partners without drawing them into formal alliances, The Eurasian Times noted. Even as Malaysia maintains trade and dialogue with Beijing, it continues to face repeated intrusions near Petronas oil rigs off Sarawak, areas claimed under China's illegitimate nine-dash line. Public backlash against China's aggression has grown, exemplified by the 2025 boycott of Chagee tea shops after displaying a map echoing Chinese territorial claims. The Eurasian Times reported that the Hornet deal sends a quiet but unmistakable message: Malaysia, like other middle powers, is preparing for a future where sovereignty cannot rely on diplomacy alone. As tensions simmer, U.S.-backed defense upgrades reflect a growing resolve in Southeast Asia to resist China's creeping expansionism--on Malaysia's terms. (ANI)
New Straits Times
16-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
RMAF's CAP55 plan targets cyber, drone, and electronic warfare capabilities
KUANTAN: The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) is advancing its Capability Development Plan 2055 (CAP55) to modernise its air defence, focusing on cyber threats, electronic warfare, and drone operations. This strategic initiative aims to enhance operational readiness and modernise the air force to meet evolving security challenges. Its chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan described CAP55 as a blueprint to build an efficient and highly capable air force. "It will be able to address future security challenges, including cyber threats, electronic warfare, autonomous drones, and hybrid conflicts," he told reporters after the RMAF 67th anniversary parade at the Kuantan air base here today. "RMAF will continue to steer forward in enhancing its capabilities and remain ever ready to defend the country's sovereignty." Earlier, in his speech, Asghar Khan said CAP55 involves organisational restructuring, integration of warfare systems, enhancement of training, smart logistics capabilities, and operations based on the concept of multi-domain operations. "In facing the future, the empowerment of human capital is the main pillar. RMAF must produce skilled pilots, innovative engineers, strategic cyber experts, and brave leaders who can make decisions amidst uncertainty," he said. "I want every RMAF member, at all levels, to ensure prudent spending, transparency in project implementation, and reject any form of misconduct," he said. Asghar Khan earlier said Malaysia's bid to acquire F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets from Kuwait has moved a step closer to reality following approval from the United States.
Express Tribune
19-02-2025
- Automotive
- Express Tribune
Wastewater system a must for car wash stations
The Environmental Protection and Climate Change Department has issued formal red notices to all 465 car wash service stations, both large and small, in Rawalpindi district, instructing them to install wastewater recycling systems. According to officials, the notices were issued in response to the potential severe water crisis due to ongoing drought conditions. The Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC), Rawalpindi Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), and the District Council administration have also issued similar notices to service stations, private tube wells, and bore well owners, setting a deadline of February 28 for installation. In response, car wash station owners have protested, questioning how they could afford the costly system so quickly. They have requested interest-free loans from the government to comply. Car Wash Service Station Union Vice President Asghar Khan stated that stations in Rawalpindi wash between 20 and 50 cars daily and cannot afford such an expensive system. He further suggested that instead of imposing bans, the government should focus on building dams for adequate water supply. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection and Climate Change Department's spokesperson said a complete ban on automatic car washes would be enforced, with a fine of Rs100,000 for violations. High-pressure motor usage for washing cars will incur a Rs10,000 fine. These water conservation measures will take effect immediately, and strict enforcement will be ensured.
