PUTRAJAYA: Military exercises by the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) will be carried out in close coordination with state governments and relevant agencies to ensure they are conducted in an orderly, safe and responsible manner, in line with national security interests and public well-being.
The National Security Council (NSC) under the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM), in a statement on Tuesday (May 26), said the NSC meeting on May 25 supported MAF’s commitment to ensuring all military activities are implemented professionally, systematically and responsibly.
It said all exercises and operations must comply with established guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and directives issued by the relevant authorities, including requirements related to safety and environmental conservation.
"The implementation of military exercises is subject to strict approval procedures and coordination with relevant ministries and agencies,” the statement said.
For both gazetted and non-gazetted training areas, all applications must undergo approval and verification processes involving the relevant authorities, including the State Security Working Committee (JKKN) chaired by the Mentri Besar or Chief Minister, as well as technical agencies.
"Applications must also be submitted within the stipulated timeframe before any exercise is conducted to ensure that safety aspects, procedural compliance and local sensitivities are properly addressed before landowners are informed,” NSC said.
It added that SOPs related to military exercises would continue to be enhanced from time to time.
Post-exercise evaluations will also be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the activities, identify any impact caused and determine responsibility for repair works involving any damage.
The NSC meeting viewed defence preparedness as a key element in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, security and strategic interests.
At the same time, it stressed the importance of balancing defence operational requirements with local sensitivities through continuous engagement and coordination with all stakeholders.
On May 24, MAF Headquarters said it respected and would comply with the decree of the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah, regarding military activities in the state.
The MAF Headquarters said it remained committed to ensuring all exercises and operations are conducted in a planned, professional and responsible manner.
Earlier, media reports stated that Tengku Hassanal had voiced concerns over military exercises in island areas in Pahang that could potentially affect the ecosystem.
He also directed that MAF obtain the consent of the Sultan of Pahang before conducting any military exercise. - Bernama
