(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Malaysia Ministry of Defense has been allocated RM19.7 billion (US$4.37 billion) in the 2024 Budget announced today, an increase of RM2 billion compared to 2023 which will saw the armed forces procure new assets.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, on the other hand, has been allocated RM19 billion, an increase of RM500 million.
According to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who presented the 2024 Budget in the Parliament today, the increase in defense allocation is to strengthen the level of defense readiness and national security.
In addition, the government, he said, will initiate the procurement process for new assets.
This includes the acquisition of 12 new helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force, the acquisition of key assets for the Malaysian Army, such as 60 infantry fighting vehicles, 50 High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicles (HMLTV), six Hovercraft Integrated Fast Interceptors, and 733 various types of support vehicles.
“We will also undertake maintenance work on two submarines and continue the acquisition of three Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) for the Royal Malaysian Navy, as well as the acquisition to replace old assets with seven twin-engine aircraft and 5 light helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Police,” said Anwar, who is also the Minister of Finance.
According to him, the government will also increase maritime assets by acquiring 45 various types of boats for the Malaysian Army and nine new-generation patrol vessels.
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) will also acquire new patrol boats to enhance border and maritime security.
This procurement will also strengthen the efficiency and effectiveness of control at international entry points.
The Prime Minister also stated that seven border posts will be constructed, including those in Melikin and Pa’ Daleh, Sarawak, a security post in Sungai Desa Aji Kuning, Pulau Sebatik, Sabah, and the initial work for the construction of two ICQS (Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security) in Nabawan and Kalabakan, Sabah.
“The government will establish a single border agency (SBA). RM20 million is also allocated for the maintenance, improvement, and acquisition of capital assets at international entry points throughout the country,” Anwar said. — DSA
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