KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Armed Forces' Malaysia Defence Intelligence Organisation (MDIO) is aiming to strengthen cooperation with media agencies to emphasise the importance of defending the country.
MDIO psychological operations division chief Colonel Mohd Hazri Ahmad said the media should be seen as strategic partners in helping the Armed Forces disseminate information aimed at defence issues, especially in strategic areas of the country including land and maritime borders where operations were carried out.
"The aim of this division under the MDIO is improving defence capabilities by building public confidence in addition to creating close relations between the people and the government.
"We give exposure by promoting togetherness (people and government) and increasing patriotism at all levels, including in urban and rural areas, to help the Armed Forces and other government agencies in improving their ability to defend the country," he said after attending the MDIO shooting competition with members of the media at the Sungai Besi Camp today.
A total of 20 representatives from various media agencies took part in the event and got a chance to use Austrian-made Glock 19 and Glock 26 pistols.
The competition saw representatives from Media Prima Bhd taking home the overall win, while Bernama came in second place.
Hazri said he hoped to continue the good working relationship with the media to build public confidence for national defence efforts.