Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has agreed to consider the release of procurement funds for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to address the force's operational expenditures. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced the decision following a meeting between Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, and the top leadership of the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the MAF at Wisma Perwira.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister conveyed his understanding of the necessity to maintain readiness and ongoing operations, emphasizing that any decision to freeze procurement should be made cautiously to avoid negatively impacting operations and preparedness. Anwar indicated that these matters could be considered for exemption.

The meeting, held in conjunction with the Ihya' Ramadan Programme, was attended by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and Chief of Defence Force Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman. Back in January, Anwar had directed a temporary freeze on procurement decisions involving the MAF and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) due to corruption-related controversies implicating several former top leaders of the armed forces.

Mohamed Khaled further stated that the Prime Minister insisted on transparent procurement processes and expressed support for MINDEF's initiatives to enhance governance, particularly in procurement. Anwar also emphasized the critical necessity of MAF readiness in response to current regional and global geopolitical developments.

Additionally, during the meeting, Anwar stressed the importance of the welfare and well-being of military personnel, including the provision of improved housing conditions.