Marhalim Abas, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, covers Southeast Asian defense. He has worked as a journalist specializing in Southeast Asia defense and security since 1994, initially with the New Straits Times newspaper.
The Philippines will receive the first of 10 multi-role rescue vessels (MRRVs) from Japan in a month. The first MRRV, BRP Tubbataha, is undergoing sea trials in Japan.
In a push toward transparency and the reduction of corruption, Indonesia says its future major arms buys will be conducted under government-to-government arrangements.
