KUALA LUMPUR: Jakel Defence Systems Sdn Bhd plans to invest RM4mil to RM6mil to set up a manufacturing facility producing ballistic protection products such as helmet and body armour in Malaysia soon.
The services provider for specialised equipment will join hand with a US-based company, Revision Military, which is a world leader in protective soldier solutions to produce the products.
Its director, Saiful Izhar Senawi said the company and its partner were awaiting the approval from the National Institute of Justice to build the plant either in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan or Semenyih, Selangor.
The National Institute of Justice is the research, development and evaluation agency of the US Department of Justice.
“Both parties have agreed to provide facilities at the plant which will have enough capacity not only for the Malaysian market but also for the Southeast Asian region,” he told Bernama at the recently concluded Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference and International Exhibition on National Security for Asia 2018.
Meanwhile, Jakel Defence Systems General Manager Lt Col (Rtd) Mohd Ariff Daud said the company’s plan would open doors for local companies that were looking for partners. He said the company was currently working with a local specialised shoemaker, Hilman Authentic to produce special military tactical shoes.
“So, we are giving everyone the opportunity to develop the defence industry locally and globally. Our products meet the needs of specific end-users. We do not take all but only that of quality and provide jobs to locals,” he said.
Currently, Jakel Defence Systems offers military apparel such as waterproof socks, jungle hat and raincoat, as well as military equipment such as night vision googles, backpack and inner vest for the Southeast Asian market.
It also has maintenance, repair and overhaul rights for the night vision goggles for the Southeast Asian region. - Bernama