KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) capability currently is not merely to preserve the country’s sovereignty, but also for universal security, said ATM chief General Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin.
He said this was proven through the MAF’s participation in the United Nations’ missions worldwide.
“Apart from that, the MAF is also at its level best and is prepared to carry out the humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR) missions, either locally or abroad.
“The MAF’s capability is not reflected through its assets and equipment only, but more importantly its ability and identity, as well as professionalism of its human capital,” he told Bernama in conjunction with the MAF’s 86th year of establishment yesterday.
Zulkifli said the quality of the MAF’s human capital had always been at its best.
He said currently, security issues facing ATM were not confined to traditional threats, like cross-border smuggling, but had progressed to other challenges as well, including terrorism, where mobilisation of all resources in the country, including the National Security Council (NSC) was necessary to address the problem more effectively.
On the preparations for the MAF Day celebration, he said various events had been planned for the event to be held at the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) base in Lumut, Perak.
“Although it falls on Malaysia Day (Sept 16) every year, this year’s celebration has been postponed to Sept 27 to be held at the naval base KD Pelandok marching field.
“Prior to this, ATM Day is celebrated every year on Malaysia Day in the Klang Valley, “ added.
For this year’s celebration the ATM Open Day will be held at the operations jetty of the Lumut RMN Base on Sept 28 and 29.
“Various events will be held in conjunction with the ATM Open Day to provide an opportunity for the public to watch the capabilities of the Armed Forces through their demonstration exercise, exhibition of military assets, and so on,” he added.
Asked on the Defence White Paper (KPP), Zulkifli said the paper would include analysis on regional strategic perspective and challenges in dealing with traditional and non-traditional security issues in safeguarding national interests.
He said the analysis would serve as a basis for the Defence Ministry to identify appropriate defense strategies and to review the ATM’s organisational structure and assets needed based on the country’s financial position.
The Defence White Paper is expected to be tabled in Parliament next month. — Bernama