LANGKAWI, May 20 — The skies and seas of Langkawi came alive as the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25) officially opened with a spectacular aerial and naval showcase, marking a powerful return of Southeast Asia’s premier defence exhibition.
Under the theme “Innovation Today, Thrive Tomorrow,” the 17th edition of LIMA was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Langkawi International Convention Centre, highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to global defence collaboration and technological advancement.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) launched the day with a stunning opening gambit at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), featuring breathtaking aerobatic performances from international teams such as Indonesia’s Jupiter Aerobatic Team and Russia’s elite Russian Knights. RMAF’s own Su-30MKM jets wowed crowds with a bold new livery themed ‘Toruk Makto’, inspired by the mythical creature from the film Avatar.
Meanwhile, the maritime segment at Resorts World Langkawi featured dramatic rescue and tactical demonstrations, alongside the LIMA’25 Fleet Review, comprising 31 vessels from countries including the United States, Russia, Japan, and India. With 860 exhibitors from 24 countries and over 57 aircraft and 32 naval vessels on display, LIMA’25 drew 140 official delegations from 46 nations, reinforcing Malaysia’s strategic importance in regional defence diplomacy.
Visitors witnessed joint demonstrations by key enforcement agencies including the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), and the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), showcasing integrated multi-agency preparedness. Co-organised by the Ministry of Defence and Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC).
LIMA’25 runs from 20 to 24 May, offering both industry professionals and the public unparalleled access to cutting-edge defence technologies and global collaboration opportunities. As Malaysia continues to strengthen its defence capabilities, LIMA serves as a dynamic platform for innovation, policy dialogue, and international partnerships in the maritime and aerospace sectors.
