Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari confirms major projects, including the LCS programme, will continue as scheduled under the 13th Malaysia Plan to safeguard national sovereignty.
LUMUT: Mega projects under the Ministry of Defence will proceed as planned despite the ongoing global energy crisis, according to Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari.
He stated that critical initiatives, including the Royal Malaysian Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship project, would follow the schedule outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan due to their importance for national security.
“The sooner we meet the targets for these projects, the better, as delays would increase financial costs,” Adly said during a press conference in Lumut.
He emphasised that the projects are vital for safeguarding national sovereignty and maximising the capabilities of defence personnel.
Adly added that the ministry would continue with both planned and ongoing projects without compromise.
He was speaking after launching the Malaysian Armed Forces Autism Initiative at the Lautan Kasih Community Rehabilitation Centre within the Lumut Navy Base.
The deputy minister also said the ministry would identify cost-saving measures to be implemented without affecting the Malaysian Armed Forces’ core operations and training.
“We have identified several departments and personnel eligible for work-from-home arrangements, which will support prudent spending,” he explained.
He assured that these measures would not disrupt any critical land, sea, or air operations and training.
Adly confirmed that the ministry’s community engagement programmes would also continue as planned.
The government has instructed all ministries to review programmes and ensure spending remains prudent, particularly for upcoming festive celebrations.
His comments came in response to questions on government-wide cost-saving measures, including the cancellation of official Aidilfitri open houses this year.