Combined defence spending in Asia exceeded that of the West for the first time, including higher spending by regional countries — Indonesia and Malaysia’s defence budget grew 125 per cent and 35 per cent respectively.

Singapore's defence expenditure came under debate on Wednesday as  Parliament MPs discussed the biggest item under Budget 2014.The majority of MPs who spoke on the topic supported the nation's commitment to maintain its level of defence spending.Singapore will continue its approach of keeping defence spending steady, avoiding sharp spikes or drops which would undermine defence capabilities over the medium term.