'M'sia's sovereignty at risk if military officers involved in graft, power abuse'

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar today said that the sovereignty and dignity of the country will be compromised if military officers are involved in corruption and power abuse.

Sultan Ibrahim said that as the supreme leader of the Armed Forces, he would not “give face” to any officer involved in corruption or power abuse, as well as to those who fail to fulfil their duties.

“A career as a military officer demands honesty and trust as well as unwavering sacrifice and loyalty to defend the country’s sovereignty.

“There should never be a military officer involved in corrupt practices, especially involving the purchase of government equipment and contracts,” said His Majesty.

Sultan Ibrahim said this at the Royal Commissioning Parade and the Presentation of Certificates to cadet officers at the Sungai Besi Camp today.

Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Armed Forces chief Mohammad Ab Rahman, Army chief Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, acting Navy chief Zulhelmy Ithnain and Air Force chief Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan were also present.

Maintain discipline

The king said it is the responsibility of all military officers to maintain discipline at all times, especially when wearing their uniforms.

“Maintain your manners and never engage in dishonourable actions. Do not undermine the community’s trust in the military, and let not a rotten apple spoil the whole barrel,” said Sultan Ibrahim.

His Majesty also expressed the need for the government to always emphasise honesty in matters that involve the purchase of equipment and the building of military facilities.

The equipment purchased must be of high quality and meet the needs and requirements of the country’s defence. It must not be influenced by suppliers or agents offering commissions, said the king, adding that he would personally evaluate all the procurements.

To the cadet officers commissioned today, the king told them that their journey was just beginning as there would be more training and courses they needed to attend to become highly capable military officers.

“My advice is you must be strong and persevere to continue training and gain new knowledge to be able to face the increasingly challenging world and adapt to the latest defence technology.

“If there is anyone who is not willing to face the challenge as a military officer, then please get out of line,” said His Majesty.

The 664 cadet officers commissioned today consisted of those who completed the six-month training at the training academy of the respective wings in the Armed Forces.

- Bernama

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