Navy chief Admiral Ahmad Kamarulzaman Ahmad Badaruddin has reminded all navy personnel not to resort to action which was tantamount to selling the nation's pride.

He said there were public complaints over certain irresponsible members of the security forces who sought 'compensation' from fishermen and illegal immigrants as a means to evade law enforcement.

"This morning, I had a dialogue session with the fishermen in Sandakan and they reported there are a handful of members from the security forces who asked for a minimum of RM100 and up to RM1,000 from fishermen and illegal immigrants.

"This act is very despicable, and I do not want any of our members to be involved in this matter," he told Bernama on his maiden visit to the KD Sri Semporna Naval Base in Semporna today.

In another development, Ahmad Kamarulzaman wants the Navy to re-brand itself in such a way that stakeholders could better understand and appreciate its role and contributions to the government and people.

Meanwhile, during a visit to the KD Sri Sandakan Naval Base, he launched the 'Rakan Maritim' (Rakam) programme, in which one of the objectives was to eradicate elements of corruption in the force.

He said in moving towards the status of a developed nation, elements of corruption, leakages, and abuse of power should be wiped out from the maritime community.

"I believe the maritime community in Sabah can report if there are elements of corruption involving members of the security forces when enforcing the law in the waters.

- Bernama