King urges modernisation of Malaysian Armed Forces with technology-driven defence assets

KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today called for a strategic transformation of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) in line with the ‘Future Force’ concept to build an integrated military capable of meeting the challenges of fifth-generation warfare.

His Majesty said the rapidly evolving, increasingly complex and unpredictable global and regional security environment requires the nation’s defence doctrine to evolve in tandem with technological advancements.

The King said that while such a transformation would require a fundamental shift, the ‘Future Force’ concept is a strategic necessity that should be implemented.

“I therefore call on the government to prioritise the acquisition of modern, technology-driven defence assets and support the new structure of the Malaysian Armed Forces,” His Majesty said.

Sultan Ibrahim said this at the Royal Commissioning Parade and Presentation of Commissioning Scrolls to Malaysian Armed Forces Officer Cadets 2026 at Dataran Panglima Tentera Darat, Kem Perdana Sungai Besi, here today.—MORE

Also present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) chief Gen Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman.

Meanwhile, His Majesty reminded the newly commissioned officers that they are the backbone of the nation’s future armed forces.

Sultan Ibrahim said a military career demands physical resilience, intellectual strength, discipline and a high degree of sacrifice.

“You must lead with wisdom and fairness, and set a good example for your subordinates. Remember, there are no bad soldiers, only bad leaders.

“Therefore, never engage in corruption, shirk your responsibilities or place your personal interests above those of the nation,” His Majesty said.

At the ceremony, His Majesty commissioned 566 MAF officer cadets, comprising 466 men and 100 women.

Of the total, 205 were bachelor’s degree graduates from the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM),

A total of seven officers received the Sword of Honour Award, with Second Lieutenant Muhammad Aliff Iskandar Mohd Alimi named Overall Best Officer.—Bernama