THE Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) remain at the highest level of operational readiness through the continuous procurement of strategic defence assets and advanced technologies, in line with the recent call by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has said.
Speaking at the CIMIC Tawau Carnival 2025 in Sabah, Mohamed Khaled confirmed that acquisitions have been made across all three military branches—the Malaysian Army (TDM), Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), and Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM).
“To date, we have purchased 18 FA-50 fighter jets, including from Korea, three Littoral Mission Ships (LMS), and are proceeding with the construction of the Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). We’ve also acquired radar systems to strengthen national defence,” he said.
“We are in the process of developing a new forward operating base to replace the existing Tun Sharifah Rodziah Base. The new mobile base will be more modern and efficient, in line with current operational needs,” he added.
The Minister also revealed that coastal radar installations are being planned for Sabah to bolster maritime security and surveillance capabilities in the state’s waters.
“We’ve completed the Mid-Term Review of the Defence White Paper, which has been presented to and approved by the Cabinet,” he noted. “Some elements still require refinement to ensure effective execution of our strategic plans.”
Mohamed Khaled underscored the importance of high-tech defence assets, citing ongoing global conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and rising tensions between Iran and Israel, as well as India and Pakistan.
“These conflicts highlight that advanced military capability is no longer optional but a strategic necessity. Uncertainty in the South China Sea demands that we take our military preparedness even more seriously,” he said.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to Sabah’s security, stressing the need for balance in military presence across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
Mohamed Khaled also issued a caution to ATM personnel regarding the use of social media, warning against sharing sensitive images or information that could compromise national security.
“Some members have uploaded photos of training exercises, military equipment, and even weapon storage locations. This is extremely dangerous and could provide intelligence to hostile entities,” he said.
“I am confident that the Service Chiefs will issue immediate instructions to ensure all personnel exercise greater caution in this regard,” he added. - June 29, 2025
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