KUALA LUMPUR: Newly-appointed 31st Army Chief Jeneral Datuk Azhan Md Othman has called on all personnel and officers to remain calm and united in carrying out their duty to safeguard national security.
He said any current issues were isolated in nature and did not involve the entire force, stressing the importance of unity and discipline among personnel.
"To all members of the Army, I urge everyone to remain calm. I believe the situation can be managed. What has occurred may only involve a small or isolated group.
"Nevertheless, we must remain united and continue to ensure national security," he told a press conference after the guard of honour ceremony at Wisma Pertahanan here on Tuesday (Jan 6).
Earlier, Jen Azhan was conferred his rank insignia in a ceremony officiated by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
Jen Azhan succeeds Jen Datuk Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, who has been placed on leave as investigations into allegations linked to him continue.
Jen Azhan was officially appointed to the post on Jan 1, in line with the decision of the 631st Armed Forces Council meeting on Nov 19 and with the consent of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, on Dec 1.
Jen Azhan added that the appointment carried a significant responsibility, as the Army is the largest organisation within the Malaysian Armed Forces.
"I will carry out this duty to the best of my ability with the support of all Army personnel and the people of Malaysia," he said.
Commenting on his leadership direction, Azhan said this year would be an important one for formulating and implementing various strategic initiatives, particularly those involving readiness, capabilities and the Army’s core role in defending the nation’s sovereignty.
