Armed forces takes heed of Pahang prince’s concerns

KUALA LUMPUR: The armed forces has taken heed of the concerns of the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang and will strengthen coordination and stakeholder engagement in its military training implementation.

The armed forces said, as the nation’s defence institution, it remain fully committed to ensuring that all training, exercises and operations are carried out in a planned, professional and responsible manner.

“The armed forces fully complies with established guidelines, operational procedures, as well as environmental impact assessments set by the relevant authorities.

“Mitigation measures, monitoring and continuous assessments are implemented to minimise impacts on the natural ecosystem.

“It also recognises the importance of strategic cooperation with the state government, enforcement agencies, relevant experts and local communities,” it said in a statement.

This follows the concerns raised by Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah Al-Sultan Abdullah regarding military drills planned by the armed forces, particularly those involving islands within the state.

Tengku Hassanal had said all military exercises involving the armed forces and related departments must first obtain the consent of the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.

The armed forces said it will continue to strengthen coordination mechanisms and engagement with all stakeholders to ensure that the implementation of military training is conducted in a more orderly, safe, structured and prudent manner, taking into account local sensitivities.

It also said military training is a critical element in ensuring operational readiness, capability and the optimal level of competency of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and security.

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المصدر: New Straits Times