Melaka: The government will seek to increase defence allocation in Budget 2027 to strengthen the Malaysian Armed Forces' (MAF) readiness and improve personnel welfare, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, emphasized the necessity of greater investment to safeguard national peace, which he described as the country's most valuable asset. He highlighted the importance of maintaining defence readiness at all times, as conflicts do not occur when expected, and preparation should not wait for another country to declare war. He shared these remarks at the Semarak Kenegaraan programme with the MAF at Terendak Camp.
Anwar also stressed the need for systematic and transparent procurement of military weapons and equipment, ensuring that profiteering or excessive commissions to outside agents are avoided. The event was attended by several key figures, including Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Army chief General Tan Sri Azhan Md Othman.
Addressing personnel welfare, Anwar stated that the proposed increase in defence allocation would cover upgraded living quarters, a new hospital, and the maintenance of basic facilities such as water supplies. He noted that over the past three years, the MADANI Government has increased the Defence Ministry's allocation by more than 35 percent. Despite this significant increase, he pointed out that it is not widely recognized, and the condition of equipment and procurement controversies remain a concern.
Anwar highlighted that the improving economy, supported by a stronger ringgit, increased foreign investment, and controlled inflation, would enable the government to consider a higher defence allocation. He announced that Budget 2027 is scheduled to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat on October 9.
During the event, Anwar also announced financial support of RM147,000 for the Armed Forces Family Welfare Association and RM1 million to maintain mosques and prayer halls at four military camps in Melaka: Terendak, Sungai Udang, Masjid Tanah, and Bukit Beruang.