The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2013 (LIMA 2013) scheduled for March 26 to 30 in Langkawi will be the best platform to open regional business opportunities, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He also expressed confidence that organising of LIMA would become the entry point for regional defence and commercial market in the future.

"It is also the best opportunity for LIMA to uplift the status of organising the national event as ASEAN, and Asia in general, are the high growth area for the world's maritime and aerospace sector," he said after witnessing the presentation of mock cheques from sponsors of LIMA 2013 here Tuesday.

Ahmad Zahid said this year's exhibition would also provide job opportunities and trainings in maritime and aerospace industry for the local people.

"A career fair will also be held during LIMA 2013 to expose university students to job prospects in maritime and aerospace industry," he said.