Malaysian armed forces a modern fighting unit

KUANTAN: The Malaysian armed forces has evolved into a modern and professional fighting force, said outgoing Defence Forces chief Jen Tan Sri Mohd Zahidi Zainuddin. 

Jen Zahidi said he had witnessed the improvements since joining the Armed Forces in 1968, saying the army was now equipped with high-tech weapons. 

“The use of such equipment comes with the responsibility to arm yourself with knowledge and ideas for the benefit of the Armed Forces and your country,” he told RMAF officers who held a farewell parade for him at the airbase here yesterday. 

The general and his wife Puan Sri Rasiah Mohd Nor were earlier welcomed by RMAF chief Jen Datuk Seri Nik Ismail Nik Mohamed and senior officers. 

Jen Zahidi then inspected a guard-of-honour comprising 127 officers and soldiers, before witnessing a ceremonial fly-past of RMAF fighter jets.  

Four Nuri and Alouette helicopters carrying the RMAF and Malaysian flags also flew past the airbase. 

FINAL PARADE: Zahidi taking a closer look at a medal worn by Kuantan Air Force Staff MejarMohd Ariffin Jako during the former’s farewell parade accompanied by his wife.

Jen Zahidi later attended a luncheon with the officers before leaving for Kuala Lumpur.  

He is succeeded by navy chief Laksamana Datuk Seri Mohd Anwar Mohd Nor, 55, who takes over on April 29.