KUALA LUMPUR: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (pic) said his ministry is seeking further information and clarification over the Prime Minister’s latest directive to temporarily freeze Armed Forces and police procurement decisions.
He said the ministry will abide by the directive but will examine the details of implementing it in line with the existing governance framework, financial regulations and legal requirements.
“We are reviewing the matter as due consideration must be given to ensuring that the nation’s defence readiness and continuity of operations remain intact and are not adversely affected.
“At the same time, a comprehensive assessment will be carried out on the implications of the decision for ongoing procurement activities, including contracts that have already been signed, taking into account existing contractual obligations, current operational needs and overall national security interests,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said Bukit Aman has taken note of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s directive concerning procurement-related matters and will carry out all necessary actions in a professional and transparent manner.
“Every procedure undertaken will adhere to the principles of good governance to safeguard public interest and ensure accountability.
“We will ensure all processes are conducted in line with established governance standards to preserve public interest and maintain public confidence in the country’s security institutions,” he said in a statement yesterday.
The IGP said the police are committed to upholding transparency and integrity in discharging its duties, particularly on matters involving public funds and national security.
Anwar told reporters yesterday that all Armed Forces and police procurement decisions linked with corruption were temporarily shelved pending full compliance with procurement procedures.
