LENGGONG: The army believes the use of equipment past its operational lifespan was a contributing factor in the death of a commando during an exercise in Kuantan recently.
Army chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan said that early findings suggest the diving equipment used may have exceeded its lifespan.
“We are reviewing the case. Based on preliminary findings, it appears there may be issues related to the equipment used, which is rather outdated.
“We are conducting a thorough review and audit to determine whether the incident resulted from human error or equipment failure.
“We haven’t concluded the investigation yet, but God willing, we will provide the findings in due time,” he said.
Hafizuddeain said this during a press conference after the closing of Exercise Keris Strike Series 30/2025 involving the militaries of the United States, Australian and Malaysia at Felda Lawin Selatan here today.
On July 3, Corporal Mohd Haswansir Julnasir, 30, of the Special Service Group (GGK) was reported missing while conducting a diving exercise off Kuantan using a closed-circuit breathing apparatus (CCBA) at 12.15pm.
Hafizuddeain said all military equipment had lifespans and maintenance schedules.
“Every piece of equipment or weaponry we use has a defined service life and corresponding policy.
“Some are rated for 10 years, others for 20. During that period, scheduled maintenance must be carried out.
“What we’re looking at now is whether those maintenance procedures were followed according to schedule,” he added.
He said one of the critical pieces of equipment under scrutiny is the CCBA.
Asked how long the full investigation would take, Hafizuddeain said it would depend on the complexity of the issues involved.
“It depends on the complexity of the case. We want to be thorough before making any conclusions,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
