KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 24): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has agreed to consider allowing the release of procurement funds for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to cover the force’s operational expenditures. “He agreed that such matters can be considered and exempted,” the defence minister told a press conference after the meeting, held in conjunction with the Ihya’ Ramadan Programme. At the same time, Mohamed Khaled said that the prime minister also stressed that all procurement processes must be carried out transparently, and expressed support for Mindef’s efforts to strengthen governance, particularly in the area of procurement. “The prime minister also emphasised that MAF readiness is an absolute necessity in the light of current geopolitical developments, both regionally and globally,” Mohamed Khaled said. He added that, during the meeting, Anwar also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the welfare and well-being of military personnel, including the provision of more comfortable housing.
