Malaysian Army's capabilities on par with world class defence forces, says its chief

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian army can now be rightly proud as its capabilities are on par with other world-class defence forces, says its chief General Datuk Seri Ahmad Hasbullah Mohd Nawawi.
"The Malaysian army is well known abroad, our presence is highly anticipated by the international community," he said in a special interview with Bernama.
To ensure the army's effectiveness, its capabilities are continuously enhanced by applying the latest tactical knowledge including the use of cutting-edge technology to defend the country, in line with the current needs.
"The army is now equipped with sophisticated technology that can be used in any situation," he said.
Ahmad Hasbullah who received training at the Officer Cadet School, Portsea in Australia, also emphasised the approach through leadership as well as learning development to enhance army officers and personnel's competency, in line with current needs.
"I also believe in producing the new generation of world-class army personnel by investing in human capital development," he said.
Ahmad Hasbullah added that army personnel should be equipped with the appropriate areas of expertise according to their ranks.
"We carry out various career and functional courses to enable them to perform their duties effectively according to their respective ranks.
He said army personnel should focus on training because through training they would gain skills and prepare for assignments, and without training, they would be left behind.
"We can make mistakes while on training but not in the real situation as it involves the lives and sovereignty of the country. Besides, the army has its own regimental governance and customs system to be adhered to," said Ahmad Hasbullah who was born in Kuala Kangsar, Perak.
"We also emphasise on the well-being of army personnel and we use the advice given by Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu and Malaysian Armed Forces chief Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin as our guidance," he said, adding that the well-being of many military veterans had always been safeguarded. — Bernama