Kuala Lampur, Oct. 9 -- When the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) was born in 1971, it was a pragmatic response to Britain's withdrawal "east of Suez".

The intent was straightforward: ensure that Malaysia and Singapore would not be left defenceless in a turbulent Southeast Asia.

As Malaysia marks its 70th anniversary of its relationship with Australia, more reinforcement is needed. But in which direction?

For what it is worth, the FPDA has matured into the region's longest-standing defence pact, proving its adaptability in a world where threats are no longer only about tanks, frigates, or fighter jets, but also pandemics, typhoons, and cyber incursions.

The recently concluded Exercise Bersama Lima 2025 (BL25), hosted in Malaysia...