Budget 2017: Malaysian Armed Forces' Capabilities Enhanced To Maintain Country's Security

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 (Bernama) -- The government has not compromised on national security as a considerable amount was allocated for the Malaysian Armed Forces in Budget 2017 tabled in the Dewan Rakyat (Parliament) Friday. Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) chief Gen Zulkifeli Md Zin said the allocation of US$3.6 billion (RM15.1 billion) to the Ministry of Defence would help enhance ATM's capabilities to maintain the security and sovereignty of the country, including the waters off the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone). According to Zulkifeli, the allocation of US$430.1 million (RM1.8 billion) to ATM to maintain assets such as aircraft, communications equipment and weapons was timely. "On behalf of ATM, I would like to express appreciation to the government, for even during these uncertain economic times, the budget announcement is considered to be quite substantial," he said when contacted by Bernama here, Friday. He said ATM would now plan asset purchases by thinking outside the box, based on its strategic development plan. "I am confident that through this (Budget) announcement, the level of preparedness of the ATM can be enhanced to ensure security of the country," he said. Commenting on the prime minister's announcement that the government would establish a helicopter forward operating base in the waters off the East Coast of Sabah, Zulkifeli said it was duly required. "In addition, we welcome the announcement by the government to create another 'Sea Basing' or naval base at sea to ensure the level of security in the East Coast of Sabah is maintained," he said. Meanwhile, Navy chief Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin said the emphasis on issues such as welfare of personnel and their family members, preparedness of assets, ATM's contribution to society and the main areas of operation were proof of the government's seriousness with regard to national security. "This call for transformation has been adapted by the Navy through the Fleet Transformation Plan '15 to 5' which has been presented to the government to strengthen its naval fleet with assets more in line with current maritime security challenges," he said. Meanwhile, Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) chief executive Lodin Wok Kamaruddin in a statement said they were heartened to learn that the government would be providing a Special Insurgency Incentive Payment to Armed Forces veterans. Lodin said a RM55 million allocation to those who had lost their abilities during their service, was in addition to the Disability Pension. "The government has once again announced a fiscally responsible Budget that prioritises the welfare of the rakyat (people). It is a reflection that the Government is serious and committed about building a better Malaysia for the future of all Malaysians," he said. -- BERNAMA