Fine cadets: Sultan Abdullah inspecting the passing-out parade at Kem Perdana Sungai Besi. — Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: The government must double its efforts to strengthen and modernise the armed forces, says Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
The armed forces Supreme Commander said this is necessary as the world is witnessing a clash between traditional global superpowers and new ones that are emerging.
“All these call for the establishment of a credible, high-tech armed forces that can be adapted to face various threats,” the Yang di-Pertuan Agong said.
His Majesty said this at the passing-out parade and commissioning of cadet officers for 2023 at Kem Perdana Sungai Besi here yesterday.
Also gracing the event was Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
In attendance were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Chief of Defence Force Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang, Army Chief Gen Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, Air Force Chief Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan and Deputy Chief of the Navy Vice-Admiral Datuk Sabri Zali.
His Majesty also called on the government to focus on the welfare and wellbeing of the armed forces fraternity and their families.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong said he welcomed and appreciated the government’s noble intentions to build and upgrade housing and other facilities for the armed forces. The home, His Majesty added, is synonymous with the phrase “Rumahku, Syurgaku” (My Home, My Heaven).
His Majesty also said the plight of armed forces veterans must continue to be championed and that they must be given necessary help.
“The blood, sweat and tears of our veterans must always be remembered and honoured by the nation,” His Majesty said.
At the same time, His Majesty said the peace enjoyed by the country so far comes from the struggles of armed forces heroes and heroines who have died, and called for everyone to pray for the success and wellbeing of their personnel and their families in the present and the hereafter.
At the ceremony, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong handed over letters of commission to 228 cadet officers who had graduated with Bachelor’s degrees from Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia. – Bernama
