Langkawi, May 20, 2025 — The Europe Today: The 17th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA’25) commenced today with a spectacular aerial performance by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), marking a grand opening witnessed by thousands of spectators and dignitaries at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC).
The opening ceremony was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was joined by Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. The event began with an aerial display by three F/A-18D Hornet and three Sukhoi SU-30MKM fighter jets of the RMAF, setting the tone for what promises to be a high-impact showcase of Malaysia’s defence and aerospace capabilities.
The RMAF Opening Gambit was further amplified with a formation and aerobatic air show featuring 25 aerial assets, including six Pilatus PC-7 MK II training aircraft, two A400M transport aircraft, three C130H aircraft, and eight helicopters of various types such as the EC-725, AW-139, and EC120B. The dynamic performance captivated both local and international visitors, many of whom had gathered in and around the MIEC airspace to witness the high-flying spectacle.
Also in attendance at the opening were Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) Chief Gen Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar.
LIMA’25 brings together 860 exhibitors from 24 countries, comprising 426 international companies and 434 Malaysian firms, underscoring the event’s stature as a premier platform for global maritime and aerospace stakeholders. The exhibition, which runs until May 24, serves as a critical venue for showcasing cutting-edge technology and forging strategic partnerships.
Co-organised by the Ministry of Defence and Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), this year’s edition is held under the theme “Today’s Innovation, Tomorrow’s Achievements.” It reinforces Malaysia’s ambition to position itself as a key regional hub for the defence and aerospace industries, while promoting innovation and enhancing competitiveness among domestic and international industry players.
Since its inception in 1991, LIMA has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s most prominent defence and aerospace exhibitions, playing a vital role in driving industry collaboration and technological advancement in the region.
