Kuala lumpur: The Defence Ministry (MINDEF) has confirmed that the freeze on procurement funds for Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) assets has been lifted following restructuring measures implemented to ensure there are no issues involving leakages or misuse of funds. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that all military asset procurement matters were now proceeding as planned.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled emphasized that the freeze was lifted after carrying out restructuring measures capable of preventing leakages, misuse of funds, and related issues. He made these remarks while speaking to reporters after inaugurating the MAF MADANI Economy Programme at Batu 3 Camp.
Previously, discussions between MINDEF and the Finance Ministry focused on the status of the frozen MAF procurement funds to guarantee that critical operations and preparedness were not compromised. On January 16, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had ordered a temporary freeze on all procurement decisions involving the MAF and Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) linked to corruption issues, pending full compliance with procurement procedures. This action was in response to controversies surrounding alleged corruption and abuse of power by several former top MAF leaders.
Regarding the review of procurement matters amidst the global supply crisis, Mohamed Khaled noted that this is an aspect being closely monitored by the ministry. He mentioned that the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) had requested MINDEF to provide proposals on how the country's defence sector could adapt to the global supply crisis and conflicts in West Asia. The ministry is focusing on enhancing local defence industry capabilities through an asymmetrical warfare approach, which involves producing local products in large quantities at low cost while integrating information technology (IT) and electronic systems.
In other developments, Mohamed Khaled addressed an incident involving a soldier who suffered serious injuries, including a fractured skull, at Kem Iskandar in Mersing. The investigation paper has been submitted to the Deputy Public Prosecutor for further action. The victim, Abdul Hamid Talib, 25, from Semporna, serving with the 22nd Commando Regiment, is currently unable to speak and relies on breathing support equipment.