KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 18 — The Defence Ministry (Mindef) will receive RM21.2 billion next year, an RM1.4 billion raise from this year’s allocation, while the Home Ministry (KDN) will get RM19.5 billion, an increase of RM500 million from the allocation under Budget 2025, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The government will continue to ensure the full preparedness of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), with RM5.8 billion allocated for maintenance and repair work and the procurement of new military assets.
“To leverage maintenance contracts, a new programme called PROTEGE – Veteran will be introduced specifically mandating contractors to provide job opportunities for MAF veterans, especially those with Technical and Vocational Education and Training qualifications,” he said when tabling the budget in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar added that the government will focus on growing the local military industry through technology transfer from military asset suppliers and encouraging local industry players to penetrate export markets.
“For example, the local company Aerodyne, which has emerged as a leading global drone service provider, should be supported to export border control security applications,” he said.
Meanwhile, over RM2.12 billion is allocated for assets specifically for the Royal Malaysia Police and uniformed services agencies under KDN to ensure domestic security through integrated efforts to curb the rising crime rates and to counter divisive elements that could disrupt national unity.
“In addition, new police stations will be built next year at a cost of RM2.1 billion, including the Pahang Contingent Police Headquarters, the Wangsa Maju District Police Headquarters, the Petaling Jaya District Police Headquarters, and the Tanjung Minyak Police Station in Melaka,” Anwar said.
On the South China Sea issue, it should be resolved at the negotiation table, and that Malaysia maintains its position that it can be peacefully handled.
“However, this does not mean we compromise our rights and sovereignty,” he emphasised.
Maritime assets will be increased and maintained, including new acquisitions under the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, namely six vessels under the Ship Life Extension Programme Phase Two, a multi-purpose mission ship, and two new generation patrol vessels.
— Bernama
