LIMA’25: A Grand Showcase of Aerospace and Maritime Excellence
Langkawi has once again taken centre stage as Malaysia proudly opened the doors to the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25).
Kicking off today at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), the five-day event was officiated by Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was joined by Minister of Defence YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
Now in its 17th edition, LIMA’25 returns with renewed energy, bigger displays, and a more diverse international presence, solidifying its status as one of Southeast Asia’s most significant defence and aerospace exhibitions.
A Dramatic Opening in the Skies
LIMA’25 opened with a spectacular aerial performance from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), featuring a 25-aircraft fly-past. The line-up included fighter jets, transport aircraft, training planes, and helicopters, all moving in tight formation to mark the exhibition’s official launch.
Thrills continued with daring aerobatics by the RMAF’s F/A-18D and SU-30MKM jets and a striking debut by the newly painted “Toruk Mokto” Sukhoi aircraft.
International acts such as Russia’s Russian Knights and Indonesia’s Jupiter aerobatic team added further flair, alongside impressive flights by the GB-1 and Extra 300L aircraft.
Where Innovation Takes Flight
This year’s theme of “Innovation Today, Achievement Tomorrow” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of LIMA’25.
The exhibition brings together the latest in defence technology, aerospace innovation, and maritime advancement across two venues: MIEC for aerospace and Resort World Langkawi (RWL) for maritime displays.
For aviation enthusiasts, the static displays are a major highlight. To be open to the public on 23rd and 24th May, these displays include high-performance aircraft such as the C-2 Greyhound and MH-6 Seahawk (United States), IL-76 (Russia), and F-15SG (Singapore).
This is a rare opportunity for up-close interaction with advanced aircraft from around the world.
A Naval Spectacle: LIMA’25 Fleet Review
Out at sea, the LIMA’25 Fleet Review delivered a magnificent maritime display. Held aboard the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN)’s hydrographic survey vessel KD PERANTAU, the review was led by none other than the Prime Minister himself.
The Navy Chief, Admiral Datuk (Dr.) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, welcomed the Prime Minister and VIP guests to witness the procession of 31 ships from across the globe.
This impressive naval line-up included 14 RMN ships and 5 from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), alongside 12 ships representing 10 countries: Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Türkiye, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, besides the United States.
A helicopter fly-past added to the spectacle, featuring models like the AW139, Super Lynx Mk 100, AS555 Fennec, and AW189.
Leaders, Diplomacy, and Defence
Beyond the steel and sky, LIMA’25 also serves as a diplomatic and strategic platform.
Today’s opening was attended by top-level dignitaries, including both Deputy Prime Ministers, YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and YAB Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof, as well as Kedah’s Chief Minister, YAB Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Senior military figures and Ministry of Defence officials were also present, affirming the national and international importance of the event.
Event: Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25)
Venue: Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) and Resort World Langkawi
Date: 20th – 24th May 2025
