Malaysia and Australia have agreed to share intelligent information on counter-terrorism to tackle the rising threat from militant groups, Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said on March 21.

The two sides will monitor flashpoints or areas believed to be targeted by terror groups, especially the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS), across Asia-Pacific, he said.

The Minister revealed that the decision was made at a closed-door meeting with his Australian counterpart Marise Payne who is visiting Malaysia.

Illustrative image (Source: AFP/VNA)

He told the press that the two sides also discussed Australia’s Defence White Paper, cyber crime, and East Sea issues.

The East Sea issue, in particular, could not be solved by a single country but through cooperation with other involved parties, he said.

Minister Payne reiterated Australia’s stance on deploying ships and aircraft to monitor the situation in the East Sea. The minister stressed that the move is in accordance with the country’s Defence White Paper and aims to ensure the right of all States to freedom of movement in the waters.

(Source: VNA)