Armed forces integrity unaffected by recent arrests - Khaled
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin has stressed that the recent arrest of several Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) officers does not reflect the overall integrity of the country’s defence institution.
He said these were isolated incidents which should not undermine the people's respect and trust for the armed forces.
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin has stressed that the recent arrest of several Malaysian Armed Forces officers does not reflect the overall integrity of the country’s defence institution.
He said these were isolated incidents which should not undermine the people's respect and trust for the armed forces.
However, he advised military personnel to steer clear of any unlawful actions to avoid tarnishing the image of the armed forces.
“I hope no one abuses the rank or position entrusted to them to commit unlawful acts. I emphasise that this case does not represent the armed forces.
“The MAF remains strong, respected and trusted by the people to defend the nation’s sovereignty,” he said when launching the ministry's “Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign” in conjunction with National Month 2025 in Kuala Lumpur today.
Previously, the media reported that the MACC arrested three serving and two former military officers were among 10 people to assist in investigations into a smuggling syndicate in southern Peninsular Malaysia.
Spirit of nationhood
At the same time, Khaled stressed that the spirit of nationhood must be instilled in every citizen, especially among military personnel and the defence community.
He said the Malaysian Armed Forces is not only a symbol of physical defence but also of sovereignty, integrity and the nation’s independence.
“When we talk about independence, we immediately picture the warriors who defended the country. Every parade at Dataran Merdeka and Warriors’ Day is a manifestation of the armed forces’ image, and we must uphold this dignified image,” he said.
Khaled also urged society to revive the patriotic spirit and reject any elements that could threaten national unity.
“This year’s theme, ‘Malaysia Madani, Rakyat Disantuni’, is not an empty slogan but a call for each of us to serve the nation with sincerity and integrity.
“Flying the Jalur Gemilang is not just a mere symbol but represents patriotism, freedom and the nation’s well-being,” he said.
According to him, the sacrifices of the nation’s warriors must be remembered, while the image and integrity of the armed forces must be preserved so that it continues to serve as the main bulwark in defending the nation’s sovereignty.
- Bernama
