KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) will receive an allocation of RM5.8 billion under Budget 2025 to boost national defence capabilities.
The funding is part of a larger RM21.2 billion package for the Defence Ministry to maintain and repair operations, as well as acquire new assets, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (Tambun-PH) said when tabling Budget 2025 today.
This investment not only strengthens the nation’s defence but also prepares Putrajaya to effectively address sovereignty challenges, particularly in the South China Sea.
Additionally, a new Protege-Veteran programme will be introduced to mandate contractors to provide job opportunities for armed forces veterans, particularly those with technical and vocational education and training (TVET) qualifications.
The local military industry will be developed to facilitate technology transfers from asset suppliers, encouraging local industry players to penetrate export markets.
For example, he said local firm Aerodyne, which has established itself as a leading global provider of drone services, should receive support to expand its exports of border security applications. – October 18, 2024