The country's focus on many current affairs has resulted in the contributions of Defence Ministry staff going unnoticed, said its minister Hishamuddin Hussein today.

"I know that many issues have distracted (public attention) from our core business recently. In this, I cannot help.

"But don't let yourself be carried away and be so passionate about current issues until you forget the responsibility placed on your shoulders," he said when addressing the ministry's monthly assembly.

At a press conference later, the Umno vice-president said: "This is very sad. So much have been done to make sure the five focus areas outlined by the ministry become a reality.

"But unfortunately, all these constructive successes will never be given credit due to the political climate we are facing," he said.

"I hope our officers and those under my care will not be distracted and disillusioned and that they will continue to focus on their core business," he said.

He reminded that the military's goal was be as good as the military forces of other countries.

The five focus areas Hishamuddin mentioned are active roles on the Asean platform, making the 15th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima) the best in history, to transform the National Service programme, to enhance the security of the Sabah coastal areas and to strengthen coordination during times of natural disaster.

Also present at today's event were Deputy Defence Minister Mohd Johari Baharum, ministry secretary-general Abdul Rahim Mohamad Radz and armed  forces chief Zulkifeli Mohd Zin.