KOTA TINGGI: The Defence Ministry is shifting its approach towards supporting military veterans by focusing on long-term employment and economic empowerment rather than relying solely on welfare assistance, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said while existing aid such as medical support, education assistance and one-off financial help remained important, they were insufficient to ensure sustainable livelihoods for veterans.
“We want to move beyond welfare and provide opportunities that can guarantee a more dignified and stable life for them,” he added.
Mohamed Khaled said this in a press conference after officiating JanaVeteran programme held at Teluk Sengat here on Saturday (March 28).
The Kota Tinggi MP added the initiative aligns with the ministry’s goal of improving veterans’ well-being through structured employment opportunities.
Under the programme, Boustead Plantations is providing land within its estates for veterans to participate in cash crop farming.
He said crops such as ginger and pepper have been identified under a pilot project involving 12 sectors, offering opportunities to 15 participants.
“At present, seven participants have started, and each is guaranteed an income of about RM3,000 per month as Boustead acts as the off-taker for the produce,” he said.
Khaled added that the programme would be expanded nationwide, noting that Boustead has 42 estates, with at least 10% of the land potentially convertible for such initiatives.
He said the ministry is also looking to extend similar opportunities beyond agriculture, including in the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) sector as well as other defence-related industries.
“We want companies that secure contracts with the ministry to also play a role in providing employment opportunities for veterans,” he said.
Khaled noted that Malaysia has about 400,000 veterans, with around 5,000 retiring each year, many of whom are still in their 40s and capable of contributing to the workforce.
He said targeted programmes were necessary to ensure this group does not face limited job prospects after leaving the armed forces.
Among the initiatives introduced is the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme, which allows veterans to gain formal qualifications based on their skills and experience.
“For example, a mechanic who has served for 20 years can be assessed by universities and awarded a diploma, improving his employability and income potential,” he said.
Khaled added that the ministry is also working with industries to provide training that leads directly to employment, rather than leaving veterans to seek jobs on their own.
