THE Ministry of Defence is conducting a comprehensive internal investigation into allegations that Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) officers were involved in the sale of tactical information, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the investigation is being carried out in collaboration with other national security agencies, and that disciplinary and legal action will be taken against any individuals found guilty of wrongdoing.
“The Ministry of Defence wishes to emphasise that the arrest of the ATM officers involved is an isolated case and does not reflect the integrity and professionalism of the Malaysian Armed Forces as a whole,” he said.
To maintain the confidence of ASEAN member states, particularly Thailand and Cambodia, Mohamed Khaled said several measures have been implemented to strengthen information security and ensure Malaysia’s reliability as a defence partner remains intact.
“These measures include tightening information security controls, reviewing tactical data handling procedures, and enhancing monitoring of communication and technology systems.
“Furthermore, Malaysia is reinforcing bilateral and regional intelligence and defence cooperation, assuring that the credibility and integrity of the ATM remain uncompromised.
“In addition, diplomatic and military engagement sessions are being held with ASEAN counterparts to clarify the situation and reaffirm Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding information security,” he said in a written parliamentary reply published on the Parliament website.
He was responding to a question from Datuk Khlir Mohd Nor (PN–Ketereh), who asked about the steps taken by the Defence Ministry to reassure ASEAN nations—particularly Thailand and Cambodia—following media reports alleging the sale of tactical data by ATM officers.
Khlir also questioned on Monday whether the matter would affect Malaysia’s role as a leader in regional peacekeeping missions.
Addressing Malaysia’s role in the peace process between Thailand and Cambodia, Mohamed Khaled said both nations are expected to uphold their commitments under the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, witnessed by the Prime Ministers of Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia, as well as the President of the United States, on 26 October.
“Furthermore, the Malaysian Government, through the Ministry of Defence, is actively coordinating and leading the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) to ensure that the ceasefire agreement between both nations continues to be observed, respected and smoothly implemented,” he added.
He said Malaysia’s commitment to peace and regional stability was also reaffirmed during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus held on 31 October and 1 November. - November 11, 2025