The curtain has closed on the 17th edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA’25), which concluded 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.Hosted at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Resorts World Langkawi from 20 to 24 May, this year’s event welcomed more than 860 companies from 24 countries, featured 15 country pavilions, and hosted dignitaries from 64 nations, making it the most internationally represented edition in LIMA’s history. With 43 aircrafts and 31 ships from both local and foreign countries, alongside an expanded programme across four exhibition halls and interactive themed zones, the exhibition drew tens of thousands of trade and public visitors.
The event was officially launched by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who underscored 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 growth.
Reflecting on the exhibition’s success, GEC Managing Director Abd Hafiz bin Abu Bakar stated: “Success is built on strong pillars – 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 lauded the event’s socioeconomic impact:
"I wish to congratulate the Ministry of Defence and Global Exhibitions and Conferences, being the organisers of a successful event. LIMA’25 has delivered far-reaching economic and social benefits for Langkawi and the greater Kedah, contributing positively to our goals for Visit Kedah Year 2025. It has brought the world to our doorstep, creating invaluable exposure and business opportunities for our local SMEs. The spillover effects extend across key sectors—tourism, hospitality, logistics and services—enabling us to unlock the full potential of Kedah’s vibrant economy. I am happy to say that restaurants and eateries were always full on a daily basis, and almost 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 for our people. I hope to see the next edition of LIMA continue to catalyse opportunities for growth, innovation, and global engagement for Kedah and beyond."
Highlights included:
Defence and Commercial Sectors: Naval ships and cutting-edge aircraft highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to regional security and economic resilience, while local SMEs gained global exposure through dedicated showcases and business matching platforms.
Space and Voyage Segments: ASEAN’s growing space ambitions took centre stage, while advanced maritime technologies celebrated Malaysia’s pivotal geographic role in global shipping.
Click here to continue