Co-hosted by the Malaysian and United States Armies, this year’s conference centers around the theme, “Forging Synergy,” which underscores the vital importance of a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The opening ceremony marks the official start of these strategic conferences. It sets in motion a collaborative effort that will continue to shape the future of Indo-Pacific land force cooperation-one built on trust, mutual respect, and shared purpose.
The theme, “Forging Synergy,” reflects the collective resolve of Indo-Pacific land forces to strengthen partnerships, enhance interoperability, and address shared challenges in pursuit of regional stability and security.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together,” said U.S. Army Pacific commander Gen. Ronald Clark. “It’s all about forging a lasting and durable peace through strength and partnerships that matter.”
His remarks set the tone for the week’s discussions, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration among Indo-Pacific land forces to address shared challenges and ensure regional stability.
Malaysian Chief of Army Gen. Muhammad Hafizuddeain echoed this sentiment, stating, “Strength is not built on isolation, but the deliberate act of coming together, sharing, and learning from one another. Geography makes us neighbors, but choice makes us partners.”
Following the opening ceremony, attendees will take part in a variety of plenary discussions, breakout sessions, and bilateral meetings, guided by the theme of “Forging Synergy” reflects the vital importance of our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
All the nations present have planned bilateral or multilateral engagements with each other. This unique network of allies and partners represents a force multiplier to achieve interoperability and sustainable security.
“Forming multinational land power networks challenges us to think beyond borders, to reimage our armies, not as separate entities, but as inter-connected guardians of a common destiny,” said Gen. Hafizuddeain.
As militaries across the region face complex security challenges—from natural disasters to transnational threats—forums like IPACC, IPAMS, and SELF provide the connective tissue for effective cooperation and joint readiness.
Hosting IPACC in Malaysia underscores the nation’s pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region. As a founding member of the regional cooperative known as ASEAN and a key player in regional diplomacy, Malaysia has consistently championed peace and stability.
“The Indo-Pacific region is vast and full of promises. Yet, it’s also a region where challenges, traditional and non-traditional, can most arise swiftly and unexpectedly,” said Hafizuddeain.
Recently, Malaysia played a key role in brokering peace between Thailand and Cambodia, showcasing its commitment to fostering dialogue and resolving disputes through diplomacy. These efforts further highlight Malaysia’s dedication to building a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
“From Malaysia’s perspective, defense and security are rooted in balance. Balance between diplomacy and deterrence, between modernization and readiness, and between national priorities and regional responsibilities. The Malaysian Army continues to contribute to international security”, said Deputy Defense Minister Tuan Haji Adly Bin Zahari.
The U.S. and Malaysian Armies share a long history of cooperation, spanning over 68 years of diplomatic relations and 41 years of formal military collaboration. This partnership has been strengthened through joint exercises, professional development programs, and shared security objectives. Notably, Malaysia regularly conducts 14 bilateral and multilateral military exercises with the United States, including the annual Exercise Keris Strike, which has grown in scope and complexity over the years.
In July 2025, Keris Strike marked a milestone with the first-ever integration of HIMARS and Astros II MLRS combined live-fire exercises into the Strait of Malacca. This achievement highlights the deepening interoperability between the two armies and their commitment to addressing shared security challenges.
IPACC, held biennially, is co-hosted by the U.S. Army and the host nation, underscoring the importance of collaboration in addressing regional challenges. IPAMS, which originated in 1977 with nine nations, has grown significantly to include 31 nations as of 2017, reflecting the increasing importance of land forces in the Indo-Pacific. The addition of the Senior Enlisted Forum (SELF) in 2014 provides a vital platform for senior enlisted leaders to contribute their unique perspectives to the ongoing dialogue.
As the week progresses, the insights and partnerships forged at IPACC, IPAMS, and SELF will continue to strengthen the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring peace and stability for generations to come.
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