TAWAU: The Malaysian Army (TDM) has handed several options to the government in preparing the security aspect in the light of the relocation of the Indonesian capital from the island of Jawa to Kalimantan by 2024.
Army chief General Tan Sri Ahmad Hasbullah Mohd Nawawi said TDM saw the relocation of the neighbouring country’s capital as something positive, especially in terms of the growth of the country’s economy.
“However, when it involves economic expansion, the security elements must be emphasised to ensure it is free from cross-border crimes.
“It should be noted that this army only seeks and manages the budget and we follow the policy of the government. That is why we have given the options to the government on the deployment of personnel and others in this regard,“ he said when launching the TDM Battle Group Convoy in conjunction with the 87th Army Day Celebration (HTD), here today.
Ahmad Hasbullah said TDM was prepared to provide insights and was confident the government would wisely address and evaluate the actual situational needs in the matter.
The plan to relocate Indonesia’s capital from Jakarta to Kalimantan was announced by Indonesian President Joko Widodo following Jakarta’s growing congestion with a population of over 10 million people.
On the convoy programme, Ahmad Hasbullah said TDM had chosen Sabah for the 87th HTD celebration on March 1, since 1933, and would explore almost all major cities in Sabah including Semporna, Lahad Datu, Beluran and Kota Belud.
A total of 29 combat and logistics vehicles involved in assets in Sabah were involved in the convoy. - Bernama
