Hishammuddin (left) and Khaled greeted upon arrival for the Sembrong parliamentary constituency Aidilfitri event at Dewan Kejora. — Bernama photo
KLUANG: The Ministry of Defence and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) have developed six proactive measures to combat the threat of the Daesh militant group in the country.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said one of them was the tightening of border controls, with one of the recent initiatives being the establishment of the border brigade in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Other measures are to conduct joint MAF-police patrols in strategic locations throughout the country, strengthening security at the Sulu sea which involves three neighbouring countries, as well as strengthening security in Sabah involving all three branches of the MAF, namely the army, navy and air force,” he told reporters yesterday.
The remaining two measures were to provide information about the dangers posed by Daesh to the public, which would be conducted by the Armed Forces Religious Corps (KAGAT), as well as intelligence-sharing.
He was speaking to reporters at the Sembrong parliamentary constituency Aidilfitri event held at Dewan Kejora, Taman Sri Lambak near here yesterday, which was also attended by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
Hishammuddin said the recent incident in Puchong had strong links to Daesh, and the precautionary advice by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Friday served as a strong reminder to the public to remain vigilant.
On Friday, the prime minister said he wanted all parties to raise awareness regarding security matters, by reviewing the preparedness measures, including against Daesh militant threats.
“Therefore, we should not take these threats lightly and at the same time be thankful and appreciate the harmony and unity that have prevailed over the years,” Hishammuddin said.
He said for example, the Hari Raya gathering yesterday reflected the existing harmony, which could be threatened if the country’s security was not properly safeguarded.
“To overcome this problem, in addition to the efforts made by the government, the people should also play their role as the eyes and ears of the government,” he said.
Hishammuddin said the ministry was always taking early measures to tackle the threats from Daesh, and efforts made were not only in terms of having agreements with other Asean countries, but also by improving the country’s military force, assets and defence strategies. — Bernama