KAJANG: The Coalition of Armed Forces Veterans’ Associations will enable clearer and faster communications and partnerships between veteran groups and the Defence Ministry, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said that previously it was difficult to effectively engage with the groups due to the large number of associations.
“There are approximately 521 veterans’ associations, and with such a large number, it has not been simple for us to effectively connect and engage with everyone.
“The ministry must manage its affairs with veterans properly, as we recognise their contributions.
“Today (Monday), we are witnessing the first convention of the coalition of veteran associations, which is an initiative undertaken by the ministry with the aim of ensuring that relationships and cooperation among veteran groups can be better coordinated through a unified platform,” he said at the coalition’s first supreme council convention yesterday.
He added that the coalition was required as the large number of associations had resulted in multiple voices that required coordination, including issues of a specific nature that did not necessarily reflect the interests of the wider veteran community.
“This has also created a less favourable perception of solidarity among veterans’ associations, while placing the Veterans Affairs Department (JHEV) in a challenging position when determining priorities to be escalated to higher levels.
In a related issue, he said that many “upskilling” programmes have been implemented to assist veterans in life after service.
“We are implementing many empowerment programmes, and these programmes require participation and cooperation from the veterans themselves.
“Among the key initiatives is the Pro Wira programme, which allows veterans without academic qualifications to undergo training with industries and companies.
“During the training period, participants receive a monthly allowance of RM2,000 for up to one year. The programme is designed to improve employability, with the expectation that participating companies will absorb trained veterans into the workforce.
“This is where the establishment of the coalition becomes important, as it allows us to move more effectively and successfully implement various programmes that will benefit and improve the well-being of the veterans themselves.”
In an unrelated matter, Khaled, who is also the Umno vice-president, refused to reveal the party’s stance on whether it would contest the Melaka polls on its own.
“That is a party secret.”
He also said that the “Rumah Bangsa” initiative is designed not only to encourage former party members to rejoin but also to facilitate the entry of a younger generation into the organisation.
“We will also expand it as a platform for anyone who has views or suggestions and who wants to advance the country and the nation,” he said.
When asked about any new or returning names, he said that the announcement would be made in due time.
