Malaysia's Defence Ministry seeks details after PM orders freeze on military, po

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 16 — The Ministry of Defence is seeking clarification on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directive to temporarily shelve procurement decisions for the Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police linked to corruption issues.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the ministry will examine implementation details in line with existing governance frameworks, financial regulations and legal requirements.

"In reviewing this matter, MINDEF must give serious consideration to ensuring that the nation's defence readiness and operational continuity are preserved and not compromised," Mohamed Khaled said in a statement posted on X.

He said the ministry will conduct an in-depth assessment of the decision's implications on ongoing procurement, including existing contracts.

The assessment will consider contractual obligations, current operational needs and overall national security interests.

"As announced earlier this week, MINDEF is also reviewing measures to improve procurement processes to strengthen governance and prevent future leakages," Mohamed Khaled said.

Anwar ordered earlier today that all MAF and PDRM procurement decisions linked to corruption are temporarily shelved pending full compliance with procurement procedures.

The Prime Minister said the government will review and restructure all procurement processes to ensure transparency in the existing system.

Mohamed Khaled said MINDEF acknowledges the Prime Minister's instruction to shelve procurement decisions linked to corruption issues.

The ministry's statement comes as it balances anti-corruption measures with maintaining Malaysia's defence capabilities.