Five-Nation Defence Pact Remains Relevant At 50: Ng Eng Hen

The Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) can act as a stabilising force in a region that can be endangered by misunderstanding and miscalculation between state actors, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said yesterday.

- Clement Yong

He said that 50 years from its signing, the FPDA continues to fulfil Singapore’s defence needs and remains relevant. The joint military exercises conducted year after year – this year amid the pandemic – reflect the strong commitment by all five member states to their relationship.

The FPDA was inked in 1971 by Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Britain after Britain’s withdrawal from the region to make sure Singapore and Malaysia have recourse to help in the event of an imminent armed attack.

Over the years, it has evolved to also include collaboration on non-conventional threats, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The pact marked its 50th anniversary yesterday.

“Our posture is non-threatening, not directed at any one country... The threat is not any one single country,” Dr Ng reiterated of the arrangement’s aim.

“The FPDA acts as a paradigm of an inclusive military group that works together for the peace and stability of the region.”