KOTA KINABALU: Sultan Kelantan Sultan Muhammad V yesterday urged the security forces to be ready at all times, in case of any threats that could jeopardise the nation’s sovereignty and security.
“There has been a lot of conflicts lately abroad, such as civil wars and rebellions, and recently we were surprised by the Lahad Datu standoff following the intrusion of the Sulu gunmen that became a threat to our security.
“It is my hope that the security forces would be ready for any of such threats in the future,” he said in his address during the Royal Recognition Ceremony of the 32nd Commissioning Ceremony of Cadet Reserve Officers Training Unit (Palapes) at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah field yesterday.
The Sultan, however, expressed his confidence towards the strength, professionalism level and the fighting spirit amongst the members of the reserve officers unit as they would be complementing the frontline during unrest.
In addition, he also called on the Palapes cadets to accept whatever task assigned to them as a challenge that should be dealt with well and effectively.
“Most importantly, I wish to see the people who come from different backgrounds and races to live together in peace and harmony, with great tolerance and be good to one another.
“As a civilised person and equipped with our eastern culture, we need to be ethical, respect one another and to observe the 1Malaysia principle so as to further forge the existing ties among us,” Sultan Muhammad V said.
He also reminded the people that while focus should be given to develop the nation, one must not create problem that would cause the country to be left behind.
“That is why it is important for us to be humble and have high tolerance, which has been practised by the country’s administration to ensure that peace and harmony are protected,” he said.
Meanwhile, at the event, Sultan Muhammad V presented the recognition to cadet officers who were promoted as lieutenants in the armed forces’ reserve officers unit.
The event also witnessed the ‘graduation’ of 1,340 cadet officers after completing their three-year training. Of the figure, 655 are men and 685 women.
Among those present were Head of State Tun Haji Juhar Mahiruddin and wife Toh Puan Norlidah R M Jasni, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman and UMS vice chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Harun Abdullah.