KOTA TINGGI: The Defence Ministry (Mindef) has secured a budget increase of six to seven per cent for next year, enabling ongoing efforts to modernise the Malaysian Armed Forces' assets.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that this increase was confirmed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the budget presentation for 2025.
"Mindef's total allocation now stands at RM21.2 billion, an increase of RM1.4 billion from 2024, which includes RM5.8 billion designated for maintenance, repairs, and new military asset acquisitions.
"We are fortunate to be among the ministries receiving a significant budget boost, averaging six to seven per cent for both management and development," he told a press conference after the Panah Jaguh Exercise Series 2/2024 at the Tanjung Logok Surface-to-Air Range today.
"Our focus is on peace; we understand that Malaysia's security and prosperity can only be achieved if safe conditions are maintained and sovereignty is preserved.
"Mindef is committed to continuously upgrading military assets and capabilities. Ongoing projects include the procurement of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), Littoral Mission Ships (LMS), and helicopters, which are accounted for in next year's budget.
"Mindef is actively modernising the Armed Forces' equipment, including annual acquisitions to keep pace with advancing technology. Our procurement process is ongoing, not a one-time event. Technology evolves rapidly, and what we purchase today may become outdated within three to four years.
"While large assets like aircraft have a longer lifespan, we continuously upgrade other systems to remain competitive," Khaled said.
He added that keeping up with evolving military technologies was crucial for national defence, ensuring Malaysia was prepared to address potential security threats.