Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) is continuing to strengthen the country's defence posture through the modernisation of its assets and enhancement of the capabilities of its three services, particularly to address security challenges in the eastern region and the South China Sea. Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman said the efforts included the acquisition of new assets, infrastructure development and the integration of land, maritime, air and cyber capabilities to ensure that the MAF remains ready to defend the country's sovereignty.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MAF is also maintaining round-the-clock patrols along land borders, territorial waters, and airspace, including off the east coast of Sabah, which is now free from kidnapping threats. Gen Malek Razak highlighted the dedication of MAF personnel, who safeguard security 24 hours a day, sacrificing time away from their families.

For the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), Gen Malek Razak mentioned that the Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) are expected to start being delivered in the middle of next year. This is alongside the construction of the Batch 2 Littoral Mission Ships (LMSB2) and the acquisition of Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC). The acquisition of Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) is also a priority to enhance the strategic mobility of personnel and assets between the peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak, ensuring the continuity of RMN operations.

Additionally, a new RMN base will be constructed in Bintulu, Sarawak, specifically for the 4th Naval Area Command, to enhance readiness in addressing overlapping claims and 'grey zone' threats in the South China Sea.

For the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), Gen Malek Razak stated that the construction of a Forward Operating Base, or Bare Base, in Bintulu is 40.37 percent physically complete and scheduled for completion on May 3, 2028. This will enable aircraft to respond rapidly when required. The MAF is also collaborating with the National Security Council (NSC) to repair and upgrade infrastructure and the airstrip at Station Lima, Pulau Layang-Layang.

Gen Malek Razak emphasized the development of air defence capabilities through the acquisition of FA-50M fighter aircraft, the Medium Range Air Defence System (MERAD), Long Range Air Defence Radar GM400 Alpha, and Airfield Surveillance Radar systems to address gaps in radar coverage along the border. The Anka unmanned aircraft system (UAS), based in Labuan for forward operational surveillance, is expected to achieve Initial Operating Capability (IOC) by October next year.

For the Malaysian Army, capability development is focused on enhancing mobility, protection, and firepower through the modernisation of combat vehicles and motorised mortar systems. Drawing lessons from global conflicts, the Malaysian Army is also placing greater emphasis on acquiring short-range air defence (SHORAD) and very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) systems to counter airborne threats, including drone and missile attacks.

In terms of long-term planning, the MAF is planning to develop an MAF Communications Satellite, expected to be fully operational by 2031. Cyber-domain capabilities are already being integrated into operations through Exercise Camar Kilat Series 2/26. The strategic focus for 2026 to 2030 is to ensure that every capability developed is integrated into operational concepts, translating government investment into tangible operational effects in the field.

The MAF marked its 93rd anniversary under the theme 'Ketahanan ATM, Benteng Pertahanan Negara' (MAF Resilience, the Nation's Defence Bulwark).