Acquiring strategic assets among five main focuses for Defence Ministry, says Mohamed Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR: Acquiring various strategic assets to improve military capabilities is among the five main focuses for the Defence Ministry this year, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

The Defence Minister said acquiring the assets is meant to ensure the nation's defence system is ready and respected by friends or foes.

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"I have outlined the main strategies to achieve this goal, including the modernisation process for military assets.

"I admit that the assets we own and use must be sufficient and function in line with the development and sophistication of the latest technology.

"We must keep our assets up to date in the context of the country's defence and security.

"Our preparation and readiness must command the respect of friend and foe," he said in his New Year address at Wisma Pertahanan on Tuesday (Jan 9).

While the defence budget has reached 1% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Mohamed Khaled said the number should constantly be revised and improved upon.

"Our plan to acquire strategic assets include 136 units of High Mobility Armoured Vehicle (HMAV) for the army, a Fast Interceptor Craft and three Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) for the navy and 12 new phase 1 helicopters for the Air Force.

"The two other strategies for the main focus are to strengthen knowledge capabilities and expertise in critical fields as well as developing a defence support ecosystem to ensure the local defence industry expands and is productive," he said.

He said the second focus is developing and defence planning, while the third is ensuring the welfare of personnel and capacity building.

"The fourth focus is making patriotism the best defence shield for the country while the fifth focus prioritises Malaysia and regional security," he said.