KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 — The National Defence Industry Policy (NDIP) is a new step to strengthen national security, restore confidence in the defence sector, and build a more credible and integrity-based local industrial capability, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The long-delayed policy is now being implemented in line with the demands of the times and the current needs of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).
"This defence industry policy has indeed been long delayed, and I think it is in line with the demands of the times and hopefully overcomes the crisis that has befallen the Malaysian Armed Forces recently," he said during the NDIP launching ceremony today.
Also present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, Army Chief Gen Datuk Azhan Md Othman and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Anwar added that the NDIP is driven by four main pillars: strengthening governance and institutions; developing technological capabilities; strengthening the ecosystem and the local defence supply chain; and increasing global competitiveness and exports.
“Our focus includes or begins with strengthening governance and institutions, which I always emphasise starts with good governance,” he said.
The second pillar is the development of technological capabilities, including through the implementation of the Industrial Collaboration Programme.
Anwar said the third pillar involves strengthening the ecosystem and local defence supply chain, which requires building technological self-reliance and continuous support for local industries.
“Because the ecosystem requires us not only to buy but also to provide local technology self-reliance, strengthening the network or what is called the local supply chain and commercialisation of R&D (research and development),” he said.
The fourth pillar is increasing global competitiveness and exports, with the target for Malaysia to start exporting its defence industry products.
“If there are efficient and good internal capabilities, we must move to increase global competitiveness and start exporting our products,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister added that the NDIP's implementation must be based on integrity and good governance, especially in addressing corruption and malpractice that have tarnished the defence sector's image.
He emphasised that a few issues currently under investigation should not undermine the MAF's overall image.
“So I would like to clarify that the integrity, commitment, spirit, and resilience of members should not be affected, because the vast majority know their responsibilities, know the trust they carry, and know that the country depends on their service and readiness.
“I do not want a few issues that surround a few people, who are still under investigation, to tarnish the face and image and status of military officers at all levels who have served well,” Anwar said.
The NDIP is not only aimed at building industrial capabilities but also offers new hope to the country, while ensuring the full support of the entire Cabinet for the policy's implementation.
“That is my guarantee. The entire Cabinet is together to improve and restore the role of capabilities, and also implement the National Defence Industry Policy. That is my guarantee,” he said.
