Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled says security issues must not be politicised during Sabah election campaigns to protect national interests
KOTA KINABALU: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has warned against politicising security issues during the Sabah state election campaign.
He emphasised that security matters are extremely important and cannot be neglected or compromised for political gain.
“National security is a shared interest, and to facilitate the duties of security personnel, good relations between the federal and state governments must always be strengthened,” he told reporters.
Mohamed Khaled expressed concern about certain parties potentially playing on security sentiments during election rallies.
“Do not let anyone incite hatred against the federal government, because that will make it difficult for security personnel to carry out their responsibilities in maintaining safety,” he said.
The minister spoke after officiating at the Malaysian Armed Forces Sepanggar Family Day Carnival at the Royal Malaysian Navy Base Stadium.
His visit to the Kota Kinabalu RMN Base also allowed him to review progress on decisions made during previous visits.
He praised the carnival as an important platform to strengthen understanding of national security roles among military personnel, families and the community.
According to the minister, clear understanding of armed forces duties can prevent the public from being influenced by external sentiments that cause division.
This understanding helps maintain the effectiveness of the military’s mission to protect national security. – Bernama