MINDEF Refines Proposal For RMN Veterans To Join Maritime Enforcement Agencies

KUALA LUMPUR, March 2 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) is refining a proposal to create a dedicated pathway for Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) veterans to join maritime enforcement agencies, leveraging their existing expertise while reducing training costs.

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the move could deliver significant savings, as Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans already have the discipline and skills required, minimising the need for lengthy basic training.

"Recruiting new enforcement officers typically requires up to six months of training, which involves high cost and expertise. By bringing in veterans, we can shorten that period and allow them to contribute straight away," he said during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a supplementary question from Onn Abu Bakar (PH-Batu Pahat) on efforts to expand second-career opportunities for RMN veterans in the maritime and enforcement sectors.

Responding to Nordin Ahmad Ismail (PN-Lumut) on recognising veterans’ technical expertise, Adly said the ministry, through the Veterans’ Affairs Department (JHEV), is implementing certification programmes, including the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

He said the initiative aims to translate the 21 years of service of other ranks into diplomas or degrees, enhancing their career prospects.

“We recognise that academic recognition is the main challenge for veterans. Through APEL and collaboration with the Department of Skills Development (JPK), we ensure their expertise is officially accredited, helping them stay competitive in the second job market," he said.

In another development, Adly said the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) has not sold any palm oil plantation equity since 2024.

“Instead, in line with LTAT’s 2023-2025 Strategic Plan (MAMPAN25), the ministry…is focused on boosting the investment portfolio to deliver sustainable returns for contributors,” he said.

He was responding to Salamiah Mohd Nor (PN-Temerloh) regarding LTAT’s current palm oil plantation holdings at home and abroad and the total equity sold from 2024 to 2025.

-- BERNAMA