KUALA LUMPUR: Allegations of corruption and abuse of power within national security institutions, including the Armed Forces, risk triggering a crisis of public confidence if not addressed decisively, defence experts have warned.
Recent cases and allegations involving the military, particularly those linked to its former senior leadership, could undermine trust in the institution, said defence analyst Zaki Salleh.
“Integrity and transparency are crucial in ensuring the Armed Forces remain respected and trusted. The military has long been held in high regard for its sacrifices before and after independence,” said Zaki.
ALSO READ : MACC seizes two hotels in Navy graft probe
“The public has always viewed the military as a pillar of national security and a dependable force in times of crisis.”
However, Zaki warned that cases of corruption or misconduct within the military could undermine the credibility and authority of the country’s security apparatus.
While similar cases have occurred in the past and involved senior officers and personnel who were eventually convicted, he said recent prosecutions of a former Armed Forces chief and a former Army chief had intensified public scrutiny and concern.
“This has been further exacerbated by the rapid spread of information on social media, which amplifies public perception far more six to 10 years ago.”
He said there were concerns that a segment of the public might begin to question the Armed Forces’ ability to effectively handle national defence when allegations of corruption are rife.
“This situation could also affect the morale of serving personnel and shape public perceptions of the competence and integrity of the security forces.”
On measures to address the situation, Zaki said the leadership of the Defence Ministry and the Armed Forces should return to the core principles enshrined in the Ikrar Kesatria, which he described as the military’s guiding creed.
“The Ikrar Kesatria is to the Armed Forces what the Rukun Negara is to the nation. It is upheld by all members of the Army, Navy and Air Force,” he said, noting that greater transparency is also needed to restore public confidence.
Meanwhile, Universiti Utara Malaysia security and geopolitical analyst Assoc Prof Dr Mohamed Faisol Keling agreed that the recent corruption cases and allegations against former military chiefs and a senior Navy officer risk triggering a crisis of confidence in the Armed Forces.
“Such cases could have serious implications on national defence and public confidence in the country’s security preparedness.
“Cases like these inevitably affect the defence system as a whole. Beyond impacting the credibility of our defence governance index, they undermine public trust in military readiness and effectiveness.”
He added that weaknesses in defence governance were the cumulative effect of procurement processes that have been compromised by certain individuals or groups.
Assoc Prof Mohamed Faisol urged the Defence Ministry and the Armed Forces to enhance oversight and accountability in defence procurement, while acknowledging that such matters involve sensitive security considerations that cannot be fully disclosed to the public.
“Defence procurement involves classified security matters and cannot be fully subjected to open tender processes. Nonetheless, a stronger system of checks and balances is needed,” he said.
