KUALA LUMPUR – The Defence Ministry has been allocated RM19.7 billion under Budget 2024, marking an RM2 billion increase from the current year.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, while tabling the 2024 supply bill, emphasised the critical importance of defending border forts and national waters to ensure security.
To bolster national defence and security preparedness, the government, he said, is initiating the acquisition of new assets.
“This includes the procurement of 12 new helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force and major assets for the Malaysian Army.
“These assets include 60 infantry fighting vehicles, 50 high-mobility light tactical vehicles, six hovercraft-integrated fast interceptors, and 733 support vehicles of various types.
“Additionally, ongoing initiatives are underway to restore two submarine assets, along with the continuation of the procurement of three littoral mission ships for the Royal Malaysian Navy,” he said.
Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to seeking a peaceful resolution to the South China Sea dispute through the Declaration of the Code of Conduct.
This commitment includes the acquisition of 45 units of various types of army boats, as well as nine new-generation patrol boats and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency interceptor boats.
“The government is also planning the construction of seven balance posts, including at locations in Melikin and Pa’ Daleh, Sarawak, and a security post in Sg Desa Aji Kuning, Sebatik Island, Sabah.
“Preliminary work is set to begin on the construction of two Immigration, Customs and Quarantine centres in Nabawan and Kalabakan, Sabah.
“The government will establish a single national border agency. RM20 million is allocated for the maintenance, repair and capital property acquisition at international entry gates across the country.
“The welfare of uniformed members and retirees will continue to receive attention, with RM400 million available for the maintenance and repair of military family homes.
“RM20 million has also been allocated to upgrade the drainage system at army camps in phases.
“To further support veterans and promote their socio-economic development, the government will intensify the Protege-RTW initiative.
“This initiative entails job training placements in collaboration with government contract recipient companies, and expands to include military veterans under the Defence Ministry’s contract.
“Special quotas for veterans will be incorporated into government programmes, encompassing entrepreneurship programmes, training, employment and financing facilities,” Anwar said. – October 13, 2023