KUCHING: The Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) is committed to ensuring the defence and security aspects of Sarawak remain secure.

Its Minister, Dato Sri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said his ministry has outlined a defence empowerment plan for Sarawak for the period 2024 to 2030.

“This initiative includes development projects and the upgrading of military assets with an estimated cost of nearly RM500 million, covering the army, air force, and navy sectors,” he said.

He told reporters after paying a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia, on Thursday.

The courtesy call, among others, was aimed at discussing the projects and strengthening the collaboration between the Sarawak government and MINDEF.

Additionally, he emphasised that the Sarawak Premier fully supports the proposed initiatives, and both parties have agreed to establish a joint team to ensure the smooth execution of upcoming projects.

Earlier, he also announced that the Federal government will allocate RM42 million for the maintenance of military personnel housing in Sarawak.

Also present were Sarawak State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, MINDEF Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Army Chief, General Tan Sri Dato Wira Hafizuddeain Jantan, Chief Executive of the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT), Mohammad Ashraf Md Radzi, and other distinguished delegates. -UKASnews