LANGKAWI: The 17th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA’25) has successfully wrapped up, closing on a high note with RM11 billion in transactions signed over five dynamic days. Co-organised by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and Global Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), LIMA’25 lived up to its theme, “Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow”, by setting new benchmarks in participation, innovation, and impact.
Held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Resorts World Langkawi from 20 to 24 May, this year’s event welcomed over 860 companies from 24 countries, featured 15 country pavilions, and attracted dignitaries from 64 nations — making it the most internationally representative edition in LIMA’s history. The exhibition showcased 43 aircraft and 31 ships from both local and international participants, alongside an expanded programme across four exhibition halls and interactive themed zones, drawing tens of thousands of trade visitors and members of the public.
The event was officially launched by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who emphasised the importance of innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships in shaping the region’s future. It concluded with a grand closing ceremony officiated by the Minister of Defence, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, who reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to regional security and industrial development.
Reflecting on the success of this year’s exhibition, GEC Managing Director Abd Hafiz bin Abu Bakar stated,“Success is built on strong foundations — hard work, innovation, learning, and unity. By bringing these elements together at LIMA’25, we have created a platform where progress is possible, and opportunities are open to all.”
Kedah State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Entrepreneurship Committee Chairman, Yang Berhormat Datuk Mohd Salleh Saidin, also praised the event’s socio-economic impact, “I wish to congratulate the Ministry of Defence and Global Exhibitions and Conferences for organising such a successful event. LIMA’25 has delivered significant economic and social benefits for Langkawi and Kedah, contributing positively to our Visit Kedah Year 2025 initiatives. It has brought the world to our doorstep, creating invaluable exposure and business opportunities for our local SMEs. The spillover effects extend across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, logistics, and services, enabling us to unlock Kedah’s full economic potential. I am pleased to report that restaurants and eateries were consistently busy, and nearly all establishments in Langkawi benefitted from LIMA’25, directly or indirectly.”
He added, “I am confident that events of this calibre will continue to position Kedah as a globally competitive destination, while driving sustainable growth and inclusive development. I look forward to seeing the next edition of LIMA further catalyse opportunities for growth, innovation, and international engagement for Kedah and beyond.”
The key highlights of the event included a diverse range of sectors and initiatives. In the defence and commercial sectors, naval vessels and state-of-the-art aircraft demonstrated Malaysia’s commitment to regional security and economic resilience, while local SMEs gained international exposure through dedicated showcases and business matching platforms. The space and maritime sectors took centre stage, with ASEAN’s growing space ambitions showcased alongside advanced maritime technologies that celebrated Malaysia’s strategic geographical role in global shipping.
Innovation and sustainability were prominently featured, with the Innovation Pavilion highlighting electric and hybrid aircraft, and the LIMA Green Initiative reinforcing ESG principles through a focus on cleaner technology and a net-zero future. The Education Pavilion bridged academia and industry, preparing the next generation of aerospace and maritime talent through direct engagement with industry leaders. The Women, Peace & Security Conference promoted inclusive leadership and diversity within the traditionally male-dominated defence and technology sectors. Under LIMA’s expanded Space and Innovation pillar, the A.T.M.O.S Sphere showcased how space technology is driving progress in climate science, telecommunications, navigation, agriculture, and national security.
Throughout the event, numerous strategic collaborations were forged between local and international organisations via MoUs, LOIs, and contracts, resulting in a total transaction value of RM11 billion. Over 1,400 B2B and 920 B2G meetings were facilitated, along with the organisation of nine conferences and two industrial competitions.
Looking ahead, Hafiz expressed his gratitude: “I extend my heartfelt thanks to every visitor, partner, exhibitor, and government body for their support in making LIMA’25 a resounding success. Let us continue this spirit of collaboration and innovation as we prepare for the next edition.” The 18th LIMA is tentatively scheduled for 2027, with MINDEF and GEC encouraging all stakeholders to build on the momentum of this landmark event. As LIMA’25 draws to a close, its legacy as a global platform for maritime and aerospace innovation, sustainability, and strategic cooperation remains firmly established.-pr/BNN
