BUTTERWORTH: A total of RM420mil has been allocated this year to upgrade quarters and improve the living conditions of defence personnel at over 60 camps nationwide, says Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the amount was up from RM400mil last year.
"It is important we ensure those defending the country are not burdened by their living conditions or worried over the safety of their families at home.
"In 2023, the government increased the allocation to 300mil. This was then increased to RM400mil last year (2024), and now RM420mil," he said during a visit to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base here on Monday (Feb 24).
Mohamed Khalid then handed over a RM9.2mil mock cheque to Butterworth Airbase Commander Brig Jen Khairol Muzambi Salehin to upgrade quarters in the base.
Mohamed Khalid also said that RM156mil has been allocated to upgrade existing quarters and build new units at the airbase.
"The existing units will be repaired and expanded, some combined to enlarge their space, while there would be an additional 164 units of various classes to be built," he said, adding that a tender for the project would be called soon.
At the ceremony, 20 personnel with chronic diseases were also selected, each receiving a one-off RM500 aid.
Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali and Jen Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan were also present.
