HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) announced on September 24 that it hosted a “Marine Capability and Cooperation Forum” in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, aimed at reinforcing collaboration with Southeast Asian defense stakeholders.

The event brought together Malaysian naval officials and showcased HD HHI’s advanced naval ship portfolio and operational expertise. Malaysia, which is pursuing a defense modernization strategy, plans to acquire coastal mission vessels and multi-purpose support ships within the next five years, with further ship orders anticipated under its naval reform agenda.

During the forum, HD HHI emphasized its readiness to participate in Malaysia’s strategic naval projects. The company presented case studies from its cooperation with Peru and the Philippines, highlighting a business model that combines proven Korean shipbuilding technology with local industrial participation.

Executives underscored HD HHI’s willingness to contribute to the growth of Malaysia’s defense industry through technology transfer, industrial partnerships, and training programs. The initiative aligns with HD HHI’s broader plan to enhance its special-purpose ship business and strengthen its competitive presence in Southeast Asia following its merger with HD Hyundai Mipo.

“We are very proud to introduce our advanced naval solutions to the Malaysian Navy and Ministry of Defense,” said Chun Jung-soo, Executive Director of HD HHI’s special ship division. “Our goal is to actively support Malaysia’s modernization drive with a long-term partnership built on reliable performance, global expertise, and practical cooperation.”

This strategic engagement marks HD HHI’s second major defense outreach in the region after similar initiatives in the Philippines, underscoring the company’s ambition to expand its footprint in Southeast Asia’s defense shipbuilding market.