Investigation into viral RMAF base incident nears completion as authorities examine regulation breaches
KUALA LUMPUR: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said 21 individuals are currently under investigation over alleged misconduct linked to unauthorised social activities within military premises.
The number of investigated individuals had increased from the 20 personnel previously reported to be involved in the viral “Yeye” case.
“Twenty-one individuals are under investigation.
“Once the investigation is completed, the case will proceed under the legal process, and they will have the right to defend themselves,” he said after delivering the Defence Ministry’s 2026 New Year address today.
Khaled said the alleged activities involved breaches of existing military regulations, including restrictions on alcohol consumption and the presence of non-family guests inside camps.
“What happened was a violation of existing rules, not a widespread culture within the armed forces.
If they are found guilty, the maximum penalty could be dismissal.
“If there is evidence of other offences, the matter will be referred to the relevant authorities, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission,” he said.
The minister said investigations into the incident at the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base in Subang were nearing completion, following earlier confirmation by the Air Force that internal action had already been initiated.
He urged the public not to generalise the issue or view it as reflective of the entire military institution.
“We ask Malaysians to be fair and reasonable, and not to assume that all members of the armed forces behave in this manner,” he said, adding that unfair accusations could affect the morale of personnel who continue to serve and sacrifice for the country.
“We do not condone or accept any form of wrongdoing. We will give our full cooperation to the authorities to take action if there are accurate and legitimate reports,” he said.
The “Yeye” controversy first surfaced on Jan 5, when videos circulated on social media showing alleged social gatherings involving uniformed personnel and civilian women inside a military facility, believed to involve the RMAF base in Subang.
The footage sparked public criticism over discipline and adherence to military regulations.
The following day, the Defence Ministry confirmed it had ordered an internal probe into the incident.
On Jan 10, RMAF chief General Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said disciplinary proceedings had been initiated against around 20 officers believed to be involved, adding that any personnel found guilty would be dealt with under armed forces regulations.
Khaled’s latest remarks indicate that the number of individuals under investigation has since increased to 21.
