KUALA LUMPUR: The recognition shown by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong will lift the spirits of the Armed Forces personnel and all Defence Ministry staff, says Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein (pic).

The Defence Minister added he was thankful for the King’s appreciation.

“The appreciation by His Majesty, who is also the supreme commander of the Armed Forces, will certainly lift the spirits and strengthen the determination of all to continue service for our beloved home country,” he said in a statement on Monday (Sept 13).

In his Royal Address at the first sitting of the fourth session of the 14th Parliament, the King thanked the civil servants, especially the Armed Forces, police as well as other government agencies, that continued to provide their services to ensure Malaysia remains safe, respected and prosperous.

Hishammuddin said that on behalf of the ministry staff and the Armed Forces, he expressed gratitude for the King’s appreciation to the national security forces whose loyalty, sacrifice and contribution ensured the prosperity, security and sovereignty of the country, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said the ministry was also committed in its determination to deliver the King’s aspirations as mentioned in the Royal Address, so that the nation’s defence, security and cybersecurity are not neglected.

“We will continue to defend national security as well as the wellbeing of everyone in Keluarga Malaysia,” he said.

On a separate matter, Hishammuddin said he met with ministry officials and spoke about development and administration planning under Budget 2022 as well as the ministry’s direction under the 12th Malaysia Plan.

“The ministry will focus on strengthening efforts to protect the welfare of Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their family members; and strengthening national security.

“We will also maintain the Armed Forces’ capability and alertness after I was briefed about the situations and new assets for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

“However, taking into account economic constraints amid the pandemic, what is important now is to focus on maintaining existing assets,” he said.

Hishammuddin noted that a series of ministry initiatives for the people will be implemented and updated throughout the first 100 days of the Cabinet appointed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The Star