22/01/2026

THURSDAY | JAN 22, 2026

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‘Defence forces remain professional and capable’

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s defence future is shifting to self-reliance, with Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khalid Nordin yesterday urging all stakeholders to back the National Defence Industry Policy (NDIP) as a bold roadmap for local innovation and national security. Speaking at the policy’s launch ceremony, he said the initiative is aimed at reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and securing a steady, reliable supply of defence equipment, calling it a strategic investment in the nation’s sovereignty, security and future. “The success of NDIP depends on a fully integrated defence ecosystem, including the government’s clear and unwavering commitment to developing the national defence industry, given the scale of procurements and budget allocations involved,” he added. Under the policy, defence procurement would require at least 30% local content while maintenance, repair and overhaul activities must be handled by local companies, except during warranty periods when original equipment manufacturers are KUALA Corruption scandals may have shocked the nation but Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday reassured Malaysians and international investors that the country’s defence forces remain professional, capable and committed to national service, despite a small number of ongoing cases. Speaking at the launch of the National Defence Industry Policy (NDIP), he acknowledged the recent corruption-related developments but emphasised that they should not tarnish the reputation of the broader defence force. “It is important to acknowledge recent developments that have shocked not only the country, but also the world. Malaysia is still grappling with corruption-related issues, including land leasing cases. “However, we must not allow issues involving a small number of individuals, (although) still under investigation, to tarnish the image and reputation of our military officers at all levels who have served with dedication.” He urged defence personnel to remain steadfast in their duties, ensuring the country’s continued economic progress while safeguarding national peace and security. “The government understands its responsibilities and the trust placed upon it, and the nation too depends on the service and preparedness of defence personnel. “Hopefully, the dark episodes and ‘tornadoes’, which are rare in Malaysia but may occur once every two or three years, will not happen often and will not give a negative impression.” Highlighting Malaysia’s trade growth, Anwar credited the combined efforts of the judiciary, senior officers, private sector and especially the armed forces, police and enforcement agencies for instilling confidence among citizens and international investors. LUMPUR:

allowed to step in. “Local demonstrate and improvements that increase local content and reduce costs. “Failure to meet these standards would result in the termination of contracts, with tenders reopened to allow capable local firms to participate.” Speaking on technology transfer, Mohamed Khaled said the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) would be implemented more aggressively and with sharper targeting, focusing only on local companies capable of leveraging technology and producing high-value defence products. He emphasised the critical role of research and development in driving the defence industry, with government funding and the ICP, including through the Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence, acting as key enablers. “Today also marks the launch of the Defence Industry Portal, offering three main services: ICP applications by companies seeking technology, research and development applications by local companies for innovation o New policy to strengthen national security, restore confidence in sector, says Anwar He reiterated that the government has never diminished the role of the armed forces, stressing that national security cannot exist without a capable and vigilant military. “NDIP is a new step to strengthen national security, restore confidence in the defence sector and build a more credible and integrity-based local industrial capability. “This defence industry policy has been long-delayed. I think it is in line with the demands of the times and will hopefully overcome the crisis that has befallen the Armed Forces recently.” NDIP is built around four main pillars, namely strengthening governance and institutions, developing technological capabilities, reinforcing the ecosystem and local defence supply chain, and increasing global competitiveness and exports. “Our focus begins with strengthening governance and institutions, which I always emphasise starts with good governance,” said Anwar. The second pillar focuses on developing technological capabilities, including through the Industrial Collaboration Programme. The third pillar aims to strengthen the ecosystem and local defence supply chain, requiring companies must

Anwar (centre) during the launch ceremony at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre yesterday. Also present (from left) were Defence Deputy Minister Adly Zahari, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and army chief General Datuk Azhan Md Othman. – BERNAMAPIC

requirements, capability gaps and long-term planning rather than personal or political gain.” He concluded that NDIP not only aims to build industrial capabilities, but also restores national hope, with full Cabinet support behind the policy. “The entire Cabinet is together to improve and restore the role of capabilities, and also implement NDIP. That is my guarantee.”

and exports, with the ultimate goal of enabling Malaysia to begin exporting defence products. “NDIP must focus on transparency, accountability and the strategic development of local defence capabilities. All acquisitions must follow rigorous, transparent processes and be accountable. “Strategic decisions, including weapon systems and equipment, should be based on clear national

technological self-reliance and continuous support for domestic industries. “The ecosystem requires us not only to buy, but also to provide local technology self-reliance, strengthening the network – or what is called the local supply chain – and commercialisation of research and development.” The fourth pillar targets increasing global competitiveness

National security policy emphasises self-reliance, local innovation

Civil service pay system addresses disposable income gap KUALA LUMPUR: The

product innovation, and technology offerings for the defence sector.” He highlighted several national defence projects under NDIP, including the development of a local satellite to take over national defence satellite services once the current contract expires in 2029, a national laser defence system, and the capability to assemble and manufacture land vehicle chassis systems. Additional projects include the assembly, repair and production of various weapons systems, the manufacture of passive radar systems, the development of Loitering Munition Systems or kamikaze drones, and the creation of defence simulators, he said. “It would be highly wasteful if the substantial annual allocations to the Defence Ministry were not harnessed to build a self-reliant, sustainable and resilient national defence industry. “We can no longer depend entirely on external parties to guarantee the nation’s security and defence. It is with this awareness that NDIP was formulated and launched.” – BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI

system is not merely focused on salary increases, but also grounded in the philosophy of total rewards. She said the system was introduced with four main objectives, namely to recognise high-performing civil servants, enhance the efficiency of service delivery to the people, optimise human resources and improve the overall quality of public service. “Phase Two places specific emphasis on talent development, digital competencies and clearer career pathways. This is important to ensure public service remains relevant to future needs that are technology-driven.” Touching on talent competition with the private sector, she acknowledged that the government might not be able to compete fully in terms of cash salary value, but public service offers a broader welfare package. “Our package is comprehensive. In addition to salary and fixed emoluments, civil servants enjoy medical facilities, leave and a sustainable working environment.” – Bernama

implementation of the Public Service Remuneration System is a strategic government move to address the issue of the disposable income gap among civil servants amid the rising cost of living. Public Service Department Salary and Allowances Division director Hasmarulaini Omar said the shift from the Malaysian Remuneration System to the current system was critical, given that the last comprehensive salary adjustment was carried out in 2012. She explained that over the 22 years since the implementation of the old system in 2002, the employment landscape, technology and economic demands have changed drastically. “The main challenge identified is the imbalance between civil servants’ disposable income and inflation. The government must also consider national fiscal sustainability in managing emolument expenditure and retirement benefits.” Elaborating on the uniqueness of the current system, which is entering Phase Two, Hasmarulaini said the