Statement from Pentagon Press Secretary Rear Adm. John Kirby
Secretary Hagel spoke via telephone today with Malaysian Minister of Defense Hishammuddin Tun Hussein. The Secretary underscored the importance that he and the Department of Defense continues to place on our relationship with Malaysia and on the Asia-Pacific region.
The two leaders discussed several security issues, including ISIL activity and concerns about militant Islam in Southeast Asia. They also discussed Malaysia's upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN and the continuing investigation of flight MH17.
Secretary Hagel and Minister Hishammuddin reaffirmed their commitment to a strong bilateral relationship and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to confront global challenges.