Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) will seek the government's consideration to continue the procurement of certain assets if the current freeze affects the operations and readiness of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF). Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that although all procurement is now frozen and subject to ministerial approval, MINDEF's priority remains the continuity of national defence operations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled Nordin emphasized the importance of maintaining operational readiness. He stated that if any procurement is identified as crucial for operations and readiness, MINDEF would approach the government to request the continuation of such procurement.

The Defence Minister made these remarks after attending the National Defence Industry Policy launch by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He highlighted that the MAF is engaged in continuous operations to secure strategic waters, including the Straits of Malacca, South China Sea, Sulawesi Sea, and Sulu Sea. Additionally, the MAF is responsible for controlling land and maritime borders with five neighboring countries.

He further explained the significance of ongoing assignments on islands along Sabah's east coast, which aim to address security threats from the southern Philippines. These operations are critical and ongoing, he noted.

Mohamed Khaled assured that procurement decisions would focus on current operational needs and national security interests. The freeze on procurement by MINDEF and the Home Ministry (KDN) was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as part of an effort to review and improve procurement governance within the government.

While acknowledging the government's objectives for transparency and accountability, Mohamed Khaled stressed that defence preparedness is non-negotiable. If the freeze adversely impacts the MAF's capabilities, MINDEF will submit a specific application for the government's consideration.