ARMED FORCES TO CONSIDER USING BIODIESEL

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Armed Forces would consider
using bio-diesel in its operations if a research deemed its usage appropriate,
said its chief, General Abdul Aziz Zainal Monday.

He said if the tests showed suitability, the armed forces would fully
utilise the product in all of its coordinating operations and hoped to be
pioneers in the development of bio-diesel.

Abdul Aziz was speaking to reporters after attending a ceremony to evaluate
the oil palm-based products, 'Bio-Diesel' and 'Bio-Lubricant', under the brand
name 'Powerzone', at the Sungai Besi Camp here Monday.

The ceremony was organised by Zemi Holdings Sdn Bhd, the sole distributor of
'Powerzone' which has been endorsed by the government.

Abdul Aziz said: "We are satisfied and impressed by the demonstration using
biodiesel, as it is environment-friendly and can reduce our dependency on
foreign products.

"However, we cannot accept its use immediately. It needs to be evaluated and
research needs to be conducted to test its suitability for the armed forces," he
said.

Abdul Aziz said the MAF would also cooperate with the government to
increase the income of the Felda community -- the main contributor of raw
materials for production of the bio-diesel and bio-lubricant.

"We hope this will create more job opportunities during the economic
downturn," he said.

Meanwhile, Zemi Holdings chief executive officer Irwan Mohd Yusof said
biofuel was an alternative source which conserved petrol and diesel, and was
environment-friendly.

The product is based on German nano-technology developed by the company, he
said.

-- BERNAMA