The Defence Ministry takes a serious view on the use of ranks by retired Malaysia Armed Forces (MAF) personnel, without approval from the Armed Forces Council (AFC).

The ministry's secretary-general, Ismail Ahmad, said the usage of ranks after retirement was an offence, and any officer infringing the order risked facing appropriate action.

"The ministry views the matter seriously. They (retired MAF personnel) cannot re-use their ranks as they wish as they are prohibited from doing so by the highest command in the MAF, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong," he said.

Ismail was speaking to reporters after visiting the ministry's Open Day at The Curve, Damansara here today.

Yesterday, the ministry's corporate communications unit issued a statement, stating among others, the process entailing the use of ranks was contained in the AFC Order which set the conditions for a retired officer before being allowed to use the title.

"If permitted by AFC, a retired officer could wear his rank while those who were dismissed from their services are not allowed to use their former ranks," said Ismail.

Meanwhile, on the possibility of the 2013 Langkawi International Maritime and Air exhibition (Lima-13) clashing with the 13th General Election, he said it would not affect the exhibition as it was not the first time Lima was held when Parliament was dissolved.

- Bernama