On the ground: Mohamed Khaled (right), who is also Kota Tinggi MP, arriving for a community engagement programme in Kampung Makam, Kota Tinggi. — Bernama
KOTA TINGGI: The Defence Ministry will not tolerate corruption or abuse of power among officers and personnel of the Malaysian Armed Forces, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the ministry takes all corruption complaints seriously and will investigate them through proper channels and in accordance with the law.
“We will not compromise on corruption or abuse of power, particularly within the ministry.
“All complaints will be taken seriously, but accusations without evidence only harm the credibility and reputation of the Armed Forces,” he told reporters after attending a community engagement programme in Kampung Makam here yesterday.
Mohamed Khaled said firm action is needed to safeguard the Armed Forces’ reputation and prevent baseless allegations from being used to gain popularity, Bernama reported.
Previously, political activist Badrul Hisham Shaharin, also known as Chegubard, alleged that a senior Armed Forces officer was involved in money laundering.
Following this, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki confirmed that an investigation under Section 17(a) of the MACC Act 2009 is under way.
When asked about the latest developments, Mohamed Khaled said the senior officer had been placed on leave pending investigation.
“The officer has been placed on leave with no authority.
“The investigation is under the MACC and the ministry has yet to receive official information,” he added.
Regarding asset declarations by Armed Forces officers, Mohamed Khaled said the ministry would consult relevant agencies before all appointments to ensure they are made thoroughly and with integrity.
