LIMA 2025 Concludes with RM11 Billion in Deals and Record International Participation

4 June 2025

LANGKAWI: The 17th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA’25) has drawn to a successful close, marking a milestone with RM11 billion in signed deals and the highest level of international participation in the event’s history.

Co-organised by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and Global Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), LIMA’25 embraced its theme “Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow” by setting new benchmarks in innovation, engagement, and global representation.

Held from 20–24 May at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Resorts World Langkawi, this year’s exhibition hosted over 860 companies from 24 countries, featured 15 national pavilions, and welcomed dignitaries from 64 nations—making it the most internationally represented edition to date.

The exhibition showcased 43 aircraft and 31 naval vessels from both domestic and international participants. With an expanded programme across four exhibition halls and multiple themed zones, the event attracted tens of thousands of trade and public visitors.

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, officially opened the event, highlighting the critical role of innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships in securing regional progress.

The exhibition concluded with a closing ceremony officiated by the Minister of Defence, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, who reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to regional security and industrial development.

GEC Managing Director, Abd Hafiz Abu Bakar stated,

“Success is built on strong foundations—hard work, innovation, learning, and unity. LIMA’25 has brought these elements together to create a platform for progress and open opportunities for all.”

Datuk Mohd Salleh Saidin, Chairman of the Kedah State Committee for Tourism, Culture, Arts, and Entrepreneurship, also praised the event.

“LIMA’25 has delivered substantial economic and social benefits to Langkawi and Kedah. It has brought the world to our doorstep, creating valuable exposure and opportunities for our local SMEs. The positive spillover across tourism, hospitality, logistics, and services was clear—restaurants were fully booked daily, and nearly all local businesses benefitted directly or indirectly.”

He added, “Events of this calibre position Kedah as a globally competitive destination, while fostering sustainable and inclusive growth. I look forward to future editions of LIMA continuing to drive innovation and international engagement.”

Highlights of LIMA’25:

Defence & Commercial Sectors: Naval vessels and state-of-the-art aircraft showcased Malaysia’s focus on regional defence and economic resilience, while local SMEs gained global exposure through dedicated pavilions and matchmaking platforms.

Space & Maritime Technology: ASEAN’s rising space ambitions were in focus, with advanced maritime technologies underlining Malaysia’s strategic importance in global shipping.

Innovation & Sustainability: The Innovation Pavilion featured electric and hybrid aircraft, while the LIMA Green Initiative promoted ESG principles, cleaner technologies, and a net-zero vision.

Education Pavilion: Bridged academia and industry, fostering the next generation of aerospace and maritime professionals through hands-on engagement.

Women, Peace & Security Conference: Advocated for inclusive leadership and diversity in traditionally male-dominated defence and tech sectors.

A.T.M.O.S Sphere Dome: Part of the expanded Space and Innovation pillar, this immersive experience highlighted the role of space technology in climate science, navigation, agriculture, telecommunications, and national security.

Strategic Outcomes & Economic Impact:

RM11 billion in total transaction value, through MoUs, LOIs, and contracts

1,400 B2B and 920 B2G meetings facilitated

Nine conferences and two industrial competitions held

These achievements reinforce LIMA’s status as a catalyst for innovation, global collaboration, and inclusive industrial growth.

“I extend heartfelt thanks to all visitors, partners, exhibitors, and government bodies for their trust and support in making LIMA 2025 a resounding success,” said Hafiz.