KUANTAN, June 1 — Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah today advised all quarters to remain united and work together in maintaining peace and stability in the country.
Al-Sultan Abdullah said that only through strong unity and solid cooperation can the nation's sovereignty be preserved, reminding everyone to avoid rash actions and to remain rational in decision-making.
"Let us all work together to preserve and protect the peace we enjoy today. Remember, we share the same air, the same blue sky, and the same Earth," he said during the parade ceremony in conjunction with the 66th Anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) here today.
His Royal Highness’ arrival at the Kuantan Air Base at 9am, accompanied by Tengku Panglima Raja Brig Gen Tengku Amir Nasser Ibrahim Shah, was welcomed by RMAF Chief Gen Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan.
In his royal address, he also reminded RMAF personnel to remain committed to enhancing the readiness of assets and human capital in line with current air power needs and the RMAF Capability Development Plan 2055.
His Royal Highness, who is also the Colonel-in-Chief of the RMAF, said in this era of rapid technological advancement, it is crucial for the force to enhance its preparedness to defend the nation's sovereignty, noting that the new global threats today require the RMAF to continually innovate and strengthen its defence capabilities.
"I am confident that with high fighting spirit and the unwavering support of all parties, the RMAF will continue to succeed in overcoming the myriad challenges ahead," he said.
Al-Sultan Abdullah added that the RMAF's responsibilities now extend beyond air defence to also being the backbone in efforts to strengthen defences in the Maritime Zone as well as the land areas of Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah and Sarawak.
"In my opinion, the team that always soars high in the sky is not just an air force but a symbol of courage, integrity and dedication. Therefore, continue to fly the banners of peace for the sovereignty of our homeland, so it remains firmly established in this blessed land," he said.
His Royal Highness also expressed appreciation for the warriors who have fallen in defence of the country, saying that their services and sacrifices will remain etched in the hearts and minds of the people and will be remembered for all time.
A total of 23 officers and 418 personnel, led by Lt Col Ahmad Zikri Azhar, participated in the parade ceremony in conjunction with the RMAF Anniversary, themed "Air Power, Shield of National Sovereignty."
The parade ceremony also included a flypast involving RMAF aircraft, featuring Sukhoi Su-30MKM, F/A-18D Hornet, and BAE Hawk fighter jets, A400M and C-130H transport aircraft, EC 725 AP and AW 139 helicopters, and PC-7 MK II training aircraft.
— Bernama