MINDEF implements WOGOS strategy on Pulau Banggi to strengthen security and development through government-community collaboration.
KUDAT: Pulau Banggi has been selected as the location for implementing the Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society strategy by the Ministry of Defence.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said this approach mobilises both government and local communities to share security responsibilities beyond just the Malaysian Armed Forces.
“With this awareness, the community will refrain from actions that could compromise security and will help maintain a stable and safe environment,” he told a press conference after officiating the MAF’s Semarak Bersama Komuniti programme.
Mohamed Khaled said the WOGOS approach involves comprehensive collaboration between ministries and government agencies focused on development and community wellbeing.
He emphasised that protected and secure lives foster greater stability and directly strengthen the country’s overall security.
The minister highlighted the MAF’s crucial presence on the island given its proximity to the Philippines border.
This presence boosts residents’ confidence and helps spur local socio-economic development, he added.
More than 500 residents participated in the two-day programme featuring gotong-royong and spiritual activities involving the MAF and local community.
Commenting on early voting for the Sabah state election, Mohamed Khaled expressed confidence military personnel would fulfil their voting responsibilities.
“We are different from some countries where the military does not have the right to vote,” he said.
“In Malaysia, we allow our military personnel to exercise their right to vote.”
He believed security is a main factor enabling military personnel to exercise their voting rights.
A total of 11,697 military personnel and their spouses are eligible as early voters in the state election.
Pulau Banggi has 9,484 registered voters for the 17th state election with polling day set for November 29. – Bernama
