SINGAPORE - Countries need to seek a "deeper resolution" to terrorism because if and when the ISIS threat is tackled, another rogue extremist religious group will emerge and replace it, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on Monday.

Dr Ng was speaking at the third Fullerton Forum: The Shangri-La Dialogue Sherpa Meeting which is aimed at laying the groundwork for top defence official and military brass attending the Shangri-La Dialogue in June.

In his speech to about 60 security and defence officials, he said that moderate muslim nations can "show the way forward, to be able to chart the path in terms of economic progress as well as do it in a manner that is consistent with their beliefs".

Besides religious extremism, other key themes in the upcoming Shangri-La forum will include the dynamics among China, the United States and Japan.

While ties are on the mend, Dr Ng said there is a need for more engagement among countries through multi-lateral platforms to respond to the threats that can rock the stability in the region.