KUALA LUMPUR: The sovereignty and dignity of the country will be compromised if military officers are involved in corruption and power abuse, says His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

Sultan Ibrahim said as the supreme leader of the Armed Forces, he would not “give face” to any military officers involved in corruption or power abuse, nor to those who failed to fulfil their duty.

“A career as a military officer demands honesty and trust as well as unwavering sacrifice and loyalty to defend the country’s sovereignty.

“There should never be a military officer involved in corrupt practices, especially involving the purchase of government equipment and contracts,” said His Majesty yesterday.

Sultan Ibrahim said this at the Royal Commissioning Parade and Presentation of Certificates to cadet officers at the Sungai Besi Camp here, Bernama reported.

The ceremony was also attended by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Armed Forces Commander Jen Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, Army Commander Jen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, acting Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnain, as well as Air Force Commander Jen Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan.

The King said it was the responsibility of all military officers to maintain discipline at all times, especially when in uniform.

“Maintain your manners and never engage in dishonourable actions. Do not undermine the community’s trust in the military and let not a rotten apple spoil the whole barrel,” said His Majesty.

Sultan Ibrahim also said the government needed to always emphasise honesty in matters that involve the purchase of equipment and the building of military facilities.

The equipment purchased must be of high quality and meet the needs and requirements of the country’s defence – and not be influenced by suppliers or agents offering commissions, said the King, adding that he would personally evaluate all procurement.

To the cadet officers commissioned, His Majesty told them their journey was just beginning as there would be more training and courses they needed to attend to become highly capable military officers.

“My advice is you must be strong and persevere to continue training and gain new knowledge to be able to face the increasingly challenging world and adapt to the latest defence technology.

“If there is anyone who is not willing to face the challenge as a military officer, then please get out,” said His Majesty.

The 664 cadet officers commissioned consisted of those who completed a six-month stint at the training academy of their respective wings in the Armed Forces.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/08/18/king-wants-a-clean-military