Langkawi, May 20 - The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25) soared to an exhilarating start on May 20, 2025, captivating thousands of attendees with a breathtaking display of aerial and naval prowess. Held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) in Langkawi, Malaysia, the 17th edition of this biennial event marked a significant milestone in showcasing the latest advancements in maritime and aerospace technology. The exhibition, themed “Today’s Innovation, Tomorrow’s Achievements,” kicked off with a grand opening ceremony that underscored Malaysia’s strategic ambition to position itself as a global hub for these critical industries.
.gif)
The festivities began with a spectacular aerial performance by the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), featuring three F/A-18D Hornet and three Sukhoi SU-30MKM fighter jets slicing through the skies above Langkawi. Their precision maneuvers and thunderous roars set an electrifying tone for the event, drawing gasps and cheers from the crowd of local and international delegates. Following this high-octane display, a formation and aerobatic air show unfolded, involving an impressive lineup of 25 aerial assets. This included six Pilatus PC-7 MK II training aircraft, two A400M transport aircraft, three C130H aircraft, and eight helicopters of various types, each demonstrating the RMAF’s operational excellence and versatility. The aerial showcase was complemented by a tactical sea demonstration by the Royal Malaysian Navy, featuring boats and jet skis from multiple maritime enforcement agencies, highlighting Malaysia’s robust maritime capabilities.
The official opening was marked by a ceremonial activation led by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, who inserted a slot card to declare LIMA’25 officially underway. This was followed by a fleet review, a time-honored naval tradition where ships at sea are inspected, symbolizing the strength and readiness of Malaysia’s maritime forces. The event’s scale was monumental, bringing together 860 exhibitors from 24 countries, with 426 international and 434 local companies showcasing cutting-edge technologies. From advanced radar systems to state-of-the-art naval vessels and next-generation aircraft, the exhibition floor buzzed with innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of defense and commercial applications in aerospace and maritime sectors.
Since its inception in 1991, LIMA has grown into one of South-East Asia’s largest exhibitions of its kind, and the 2025 edition reinforced its stature. Running for five days until May 24, the event provided a platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and defense professionals to forge partnerships and explore collaborative opportunities. The diverse range of exhibitors underscored the global interest in Malaysia’s growing role as a regional leader in these industries. LIMA’25 not only highlighted technological advancements but also celebrated Malaysia’s commitment to fostering innovation, ensuring that the event’s impact will resonate in the aerospace and maritime sectors for years to come.