The defence ministry is reviewing procedures for handling sensitive tactical information and monitoring the use of communication systems and technology within the Malaysian Armed Forces following recent media reports alleging the sale of tactical information by military officers.
In a written parliamentary reply, defence minister Khaled Nordin also said his ministry is strengthening bilateral and regional intelligence and military cooperation to assure Asean, especially Thailand and Cambodia, that the reliability and integrity of the country’s armed forces remain intact.
Khaled said his ministry is conducting diplomatic and military engagement sessions with Asean counterparts to “clarify the actual situation” and reaffirm Malaysia’s commitment to safeguarding information security.
“The ministry takes these allegations seriously and is conducting a thorough internal investigation with the cooperation of other security authorities.
“Appropriate disciplinary and legal action will be taken against any individuals found to be involved,” he said, adding that the incident was isolated and does not reflect the professionalism or credibility of the wider armed forces.
Khaled said these measures are intended to reassure Asean partners, including Thailand and Cambodia, that Malaysia remains a reliable actor in regional security initiatives.
He said Malaysia continues to play an active role in peacekeeping efforts, including the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord and coordination of the Asean observer team, which monitors ceasefire compliance between Thailand and Cambodia.
“These actions reflect the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding information security while maintaining confidence among our regional partners,” he said.
Khaled was asked by Khlir Nor (PN-Ketereh) about the steps the ministry has taken to reassure Asean countries, particularly Thailand and Cambodia, following recent media reports regarding the sale of tactical information by military officers.
Khlir also asked whether such incidents would affect Malaysia’s role as head of the Asean observer team.
On Aug 13, a Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission source said the agency had busted a smuggling syndicate allegedly operated by senior armed forces officers in the country’s south.
The source said the senior officers were from the armed forces’ intelligence division, including two former personnel from the same unit.
They were assigned to monitor and curb smuggling activities but are believed to have colluded with the syndicate for the past five years, amassing more than RM3 million in bribes.
Initial investigations found that the five senior officers were suspected to have facilitated the entry of contraband, including drugs and cigarettes, from neighbouring countries, worth about RM5 million a month.
