TAWAU, June 29 — The Malaysian Armed Forces' (MAF) personnel have been reminded to refrain from uploading sensitive content on social media, particularly related to security assets, to prevent hostile parties from identifying the nation's defence capabilities.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he is confident that armed forces commanders would issue firm instructions to their personnel to use social media responsibly and avoid compromising national security.
"Sometimes in their eagerness to showcase training or equipment, personnel may unintentionally reveal where such assets are stored.
“This could expose our strengths to those with ill intent," he told the press after officiating the Tawau 2025 Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Carnival at the Tawau Sports Complex today.
Khaled was responding to a reminder yesterday from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, who cautioned military personnel against sharing sensitive information related to troop movements and operations on social media, particularly on sensitive topics.
Meanwhile, the Defence Ministry continues to acquire strategic assets annually to enhance national security.
He stressed that these are not off-the-shelf purchases, but custom orders tailored to the MAF’s operational needs across land, air, and sea, ensuring suitability and effective deployment.
“We have already procured 18 FA-50 aircraft from South Korea, three Littoral Mission Ships, and are continuing construction of the Littoral Combat Ships, alongside radar purchases to bolster national defence,” Khaled said.
He added that the ministry is also in the process of replacing the static Tun Sharifah Rodziah forward operating base with a more modern and mobile base better suited to current operational demands, expected to be completed next year.
Commenting on ongoing global conflicts, including in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran-Israel, and India-Pakistan, the minister said these developments highlight the importance of Malaysia prioritising the acquisition of technology-driven defence assets.
“We are also aware of ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, which remain a serious concern. The government is committed to ensuring balanced defence preparedness between Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia,” Khaled said.
— Bernama
