Safeguards for the nation

Keeping with the times: (From left) Najib, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and National Security Council director-general Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin sharing a light moment during the launching of the National Security Policy book. — Bernama

PUTRAJAYA: The newly formulated National Security Policy is a must for all federal and state agencies to refer to when drawing up new practices.

It is to ensure consistency and the Government has directed the authorities to check existing procedures so that these are also in accordance with the policy.

For the policy to stay relevant, it will be reviewed at least once every three years, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“This is in line with the fast-­changing landscape of national security and threats.

“We want to ensure that our policies are up to date to effectively tackle and counter any form of harm,” he said.

The policy was drawn up after the National Security Council Act was enforced. It received the Cabinet's stamp of approval on Jan 11.

Implementation of the policy will be monitored by a committee chaired by the National Security Council director-general.

Speaking at the launch of the policy book, the Prime Minister said national security covers nine areas, including territorial sovereignty, socio-political stability, good governance, economic integrity and social justice.

Najib said that while previous security issues that had to be dealt with were communists and the May 13 incident, today’s threats came in the form of violent and extremist groups like the Islamic State.

“So far, we have been able to protect our sovereignty and maintain peace, thanks to the good work of our security forces.

“It is my hope that the public understands and appreciates the policy which is meant to protect them and the country.

“Let us all work together, hand in hand to defend our nation, to ensure the survival of a safe, independent and sovereign Malaysia,” he said.