SUBANG: The deployment of Malaysian Peacekeeping Battalion (Malbatt) 850-11 to Lebanon is focused on conducting peacekeeping missions in the country and not due to the current Palestine-Israel conflict, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

The Defence Minister said Malbatt 850-11, consisting of 854 Armed Forces officers and personnel along with 30 others from Brunei's Armed Forces will take over the peacekeeping mission of Malbatt 850-10.

"The involvement of Malaysian Armed Forces in United Nations' missions is a form of recognition and trust of the international community towards the credibility, prestige and professionalism of our soldiers.

"So far, the safety of military personnel is under control and Malbatt 850 camps in Tibnin and Marakah in Lebanon are located far from the borders of Lebanon and Israel.

"Thus, it can be said there is less security risk to our military personnel but Malbatt 850-11 has been reminded to stay vigilant and careful in their duties," he told reporters after sending off Malbatt 850-11 at the Subang Air Force base on Thursday (Nov 2).

Commenting on the safety of Malbatt 850-10, who will return home soon after conducting peacekeeping missions for 12 months, Mohamad said there were a few situations since the Palestine-Israel conflict started on Oct 7.

Mohamad said the peacekeeping teams have been instructed to be ready for any eventuality.

"Our soldiers must be ready for any outcome or eventuality.

"All Malbatt military personnel in Lebanon must follow and abide by UN directives," he added.

The current Malbatt 850-10 deployed at Lebanon have conducted drills to enter bunkers for safety purposes, he said.

"We must be prepared in case the Gaza-Israel conflict worsens," he said.

He added that he hoped all officers and personnel will maintain a high level of professionalism and stay committed to their duties in Lebanon.