KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians should not judge all members of the Armed Forces over recent integrity issues and unhealthy practices that have surfaced, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said the alleged immoral activities linked to the so-called “yeye culture” that recently went viral on social media involved only a small number of personnel and constituted a breach of existing regulations, rather than a long-standing culture within the Armed Forces.
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Khaled said he was disappointed by some public reactions suggesting that such incidents reflected entrenched practices among all military personnel.
“I hope all parties will not blame everyone or point fingers at the Armed Forces as if all its members behave this way,” he told a press conference after his New Year address on Monday (Jan 12).
He said the ministry did not want the morale and fighting spirit of military personnel to be affected by condemnation and irrational perceptions from the public.
“I also hope the people will support the efforts of the ministry and Armed Forces leadership in taking appropriate action against those involved in unhealthy activities.
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"It is unfair to blame all members of the military when the vast majority sacrifice so much for the country,” he added.
Commenting on investigations into the case, Mohamed Khaled said probes involving 21 Royal Malaysia Air Force (RMAF) were nearing completion.
“We will proceed with investigations, including into violations such as the prohibition on bringing in alcoholic beverages and allowing guests who are not immediate family members of military officers.
“These matters are clearly governed by regulations, and any breach may result in the maximum punishment of dismissal from service,” he said.
Khaled added that the incident was reported to have taken place at the Subang Air Base.
"Ye ye culture" is used to symbolise wild parties on military bases, which include female escorts.
