THE government has pledged uncompromising action over the death of a 24-year-old soldier, amid mounting evidence that criminal conduct may have contributed to the fatal incident.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said authorities would not tolerate any wrongdoing linked to the death of Private Muhammad Amirul Raziq Rosafindi, stressing that justice must be upheld.
“I have been following media reports regarding the incident involving the deceased. The government and the Malaysian Armed Forces will not compromise if there are elements of crime.
“Firm action in accordance with the law will be taken and the case will be brought to court,” he told reporters during the Aidilfitri open house event for the Jelebu parliamentary constituency.
He emphasised that the government remained committed to ensuring accountability and preventing similar incidents in future, warning that any form of disciplinary action involving physical abuse is unacceptable and violates established standard operating procedures.
“This matter must serve as a lesson so that all parties comply with existing guidelines, and disciplinary action must not be carried out arbitrarily, especially if it involves physical abuse.
“All parties must adhere to the prescribed SOP and not resort to methods outside the existing guidelines,” he said.
The soldier was pronounced dead at 9.34am on Saturday after undergoing two weeks of treatment at Hospital Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah for severe injuries.
Preliminary investigations indicate that he was allegedly assaulted at the 25th Royal Malay Regiment camp in Bentong on March 31, reportedly stemming from dissatisfaction related to cleaning duties.
According to a statement by the Army’s public relations unit, a non-commissioned officer is believed to have used force, including slapping and punching, against seven personnel at the camp.
The case has intensified scrutiny over disciplinary practices within military institutions, with authorities signalling that any breach involving violence will be treated as a serious criminal offence. - April 12, 2026
