Advancing Academic–Industry Collaboration at DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026: Engagement by Event Management Lecturers

The 19th Defence Services Asia (DSA) and 4th National Security (NATSEC) Asia Exhibition 2026 took place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur. The event, hosted, supported, and co-organised by the Ministry of Defence and Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference, recognised as one of Asia’s premier defence and homeland security exhibitions. It showcased advanced technologies, systems, hardware, and electronic warfare solutions from the global market, bringing together international defence and security representatives, exhibitors, and industry leaders from various countries, including Malaysia, Türkiye, Japan, Belgium, China, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Croatia, and Australia. The event served as a key platform for global networking, strategic collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the sector.

In addition to its international significance, DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 provided valuable opportunities for academic–industry collaboration. Three lecturers from the Bachelor of International Events Management programme at the School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events received a research grant to study the impact of DSA on the events industry. The research team, led by Ms. Dhiya Hikmahana Abdul Razak, included Co-Researchers Dr. Khairiah Ismail and Mr. Ch’ng Chor Ban. Over the four-day exhibition, interviews and survey sessions were conducted with the assistance of seven Bachelor of International Events Management students, providing them with exposure to large-scale international event operations and industry-based research activities.

The exhibition concluded with a thank-you reception to acknowledge the contributions of collaborators and participants. A key moment was the symbolic handover of the research agreement from Mr. Nadzeem Rahman, Executive Director of DSA, to Dr. Khairiah Ismail, Programme Director of the Bachelor of International Events Management programme. The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence, alongside senior leaders from the Ministry and the Malaysian Armed Forces. This collaboration underscores the growing importance of research and academic engagement in advancing the events industry through evidence-based insights, innovation, and strong professional partnerships.