ANOTHER COMMENT FROM A RETIRED SENIOR ARMY OFFICER

I would like to share with my readers a comment from a senior colleague of mine regarding the highly ‘controversial statement’ made by the Chief of Defence Forces recently, concerning the revelation made by four ex-servicemen on postal voting that they claimed were mired in abuses. Let it be known that whatever comments made by my colleague and I in this posting is not intended to belittle or to ridicule the Generals of the AF. It is merely a voice to remind the AF leadership that the retirees are still mindful of what goes on in the AF today, and that the AF remains true to their avowed profession i.e. as defenders of the nation.

LT KOL IDRIS BIN HASSAN (Retired) wrote:

I refer to “The army is apolitical” (The Star, Aug 19) with Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Zulkifeli Mohd Zain refuting claims by four ex-soldiers that they were ordered to cast postal votes for other officers and their wives while they were in service. The General went on to rebuke the public by saying “people need to show their support for the army’s role in the country, and asking, “How can we be loyal to you when you are disloyal to us?”

With due respect, the CDF needs to be reminded that we as a nation were able to successfully defeat the Japanese during World War 2 when they occupied our country, repel the enemy forces during the Indonesian Confrontation, and rout the communist terrorist during the Emergency largely because the rakyat supported the army by giving vital information on enemy movements.

Many joined vigilante corps like the Home Guard and fought alongside the army. Thousands of them lost their lives in reprisal action by the enemy. The public has always supported, and will continue to support the army to protect our beloved homeland. To say the public is disloyal is perhaps not the best choice of words.

The army is the combatant arm of the nation. Its duty is to defend the country and the way of life the nation has chosen for itself. The army’s foremost duty is loyalty to King and country and of obedience to the orders of the government of the day. It remains a political and owes no allegiance whatsoever to any political party. It is for this very reason that soldiers are required to abstain from taking part in politics, directly or indirectly. The intention is to keep the army from conflicting currents so that it may retain the team spirit which is so vital for its success.

The restrictions, however do not bar soldiers from holding opinions on matter that concern them as citizens, but from expressing such as are likely to jeopardize the trust the nation and the people have placed in them. Our Generals too are at times to be blame when the impartiality of our army is questioned.

I remember reading in an English language tabloid, “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you”, RMAF Chief tells personnel. The action of the outgoing RMAF Chief was most inappropriate when he said that “those who wear the uniform by right should vote for the existing government, as we have benefitted from the present administration”.

The General was probably trying to score some brownie points in the hope of earning a lucrative appointment in retirement which is usually the case. Sadly, such statements from a very senior officer and a service chief at that do not augur well for the impartiality of the army.

At this level, the CDF is not only a soldier but also a diplomat; he should not display combatant body language when appearing on national TV. This is also no longer a time when a mere denial would suffice and the problem would go away. Perhaps the CDF needs to check the present system of postal voting in all military establishments and suggest changes if necessary.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

IS DEFENCE PROCUREMENT A MILITARY SECRET?

UMNO Youth leader Khairy Jamaluddin has said that while he supports the Freedom of Information Act, he however cautioned ‘that several areas need to be excluded in the interest of national security, such as defence procurement’. I suppose what Khairy meant by defence procurement are the procurements made for capital items only and not the procurement of common user items that numbers by the hundreds.

If I may be permitted to get into a discourse concerning this matter, I would say that there is absolutely no reason for us to treat the procurement of a capital item for the Armed Forces as a matter of national security, which has to be kept a secret. And to say that “no country will disclose specifications” of their defence procurement is also not quite right either.

I based the above argument to one simple reasoning i.e. that today our Armed Forces is a nett importer of all major defence procurement i.e. from the basic small arms weapon (I am referring to an indigenously designed and developed weapons) to the largest of the weaponries, ships and aircrafts. Because we depend entirely on a foreign purchase for our military hardware, we therefore have to reveal our technical specification for customization (which is quite usual), without which the manufacturer could do nothing. Once our specifications are known to the manufacturer, the entire world will have full knowledge of it and this can then be available from the internet, defence magazines etc. Just have a look at Jane’s military magazines and every bit of detail can be obtained from the magazine. Or go and search the internet for any piece of military hardware and you will be surprised at the volume of information available including technical specifications. Even the country’s force level can be obtained from the internet and so what secret are we talking about?

Even for neighboring Singapore that has gone into the development and manufacturing of its own military hardware cannot strictly keep their specification a secret. Likewise, the same will apply to us if we are already into development and manufacturing, which presently we are far from it.

I think what is more important each time the Armed Forces make a new procurement is to see how the newly acquired military hardware is employed given a specific military operational environment or the future battle field environment. In a more simple term, it is the tactical employment or the optimal use of the military hardware to successfully support a battle plan. It is pointless to procure something that cannot support a battle plan, however sophisticated the hardware. It is likened to someone purchasing a Ferrari sports car and driving it along a road that is not surfaced and filled with pot holes. Surely the Ferrari sports car cannot perform for what it is constructed for i.e. speed.

And to Khairy, we can forgive him for saying something that he is not too familiar with, for the short stint of military training is certainly not sufficient for him to be an expert in military affairs. It is certainly more than just being able to use a rifle.

I would therefore conclude to say that it is how one develops the tactical use of the newly acquired military hardware that should be kept a ‘secret’, and not the specification of the military hardware itself.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

NEW ARMED FORCES OFFICERS MESS – A CLASS OF ITS OWN

Back in September 9th 2008, I did post an article relating to the Armed Forces Officers Mess. And it was only yesterday that I saw from a distant a magnificent building raised skywards from the grounds of the MINDEF complex, gazing over the Kuala Lumpur landscape in what resembles a five star hotel. That magnificent building is nothing more than the new Armed Forces Officers Mess that I wrote about in September 9th 2008.

The Armed Forces must be fully appreciative of the government’s kind gesture to construct a first class officers mess befitting the officers (past and present) contribution and sacrifice to the nation. Here, I would like to suggest to the authorities concern that a dedicated warrior’s gallery be set aside within the complex honoring those officers and men that had died in defence of their homeland. It is a sort of a mini museum that adds value to the mess, and be a constant reminder to the younger generation of the officers corp of the heroism and sacrifice of the older generation of officers and men.

Looking back, I wish to mention the names of certain officers that I know had been highly instrumental in building up a case for the construction of a new officer’s mess, and following it through its final realization while they were still in service. The officers are Lt Jen Dato Adnan Mohd Zain (Retired), formally the Chief of Staff, Armed Forces Headquarters and Mej Jen Dato Dr. Termidzi Junaidi (Retired) formally Director General Armed Forces Dental Corp and also the President of The Mess Committee (PMC) at the time when the proposal for the construction of the officers mess was first mooted. I would be failing not to also mention of another officer i.e. Mejor Verasingam Ratnasamy, the present Mess Manager whom I think is the only officer to know the entire history of the beginnings of the new mess until it is finally readied for occupation, reportedly before the close of this year. My humble proposal to the authorities then is to have these three officers be remembered and their names well placed and honored at the gallery.

All said and done, we must not forget the one person who played a significant role in approving the construction of the new mess and setting aside a budget for the construction, and that person is Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak who was then the Defence Minister, and to whom I personally wrote him a letter back in 2001. I must admit that although I have been critical of him at times, but his kind and thoughtful gesture to approve the construction must be recognized, and I am personally most thankful to him. I would also want to suggest that Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak’s name be honored and place prominently in the mess.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

I AM BACK TO BLOGGING

It’s been almost a month long that I’ve been off the blog sphere, and many thanks to a dear friend who helped me solve my problem in getting back into my blogger dashboard. I do not think anyone would want to hack into my blog; nor do I think someone wants to see me off the blog sphere, although I was once warned to be more careful on what I write. I think I’ve mellowed a bit now, much to the satisfaction of my ‘better half’ who seems not to agree to most of what I write. She had once told me that I should be thankful to the government of the day for providing me a pension and criticizing the government is like ‘biting the hand that feeds you’.

Now, I want to relate to you what I had gone through soon after retirement that is not known to many people. I was invited into politics and voluntarily joined a political party. The reason I joined is that I felt I could be of some service to society. In other words, it is ‘pay-back’ time for me and thinking that my military experience could be of use in politics. For about two years, I was within the circle of politics and tried my best to understand the game played by politicians and how they relate themselves to society.

Now, looking back, I thought my two years with a political party is not what I wanted to be. I realize that I could not be of any service to society because my reach is only limited to members of that one political party, and not to others who are outside the party. In other words, my service to society is limited to party members only and others are quite unwelcomed. I felt this strange especially when some others are people of my race, and just because they are not party members, they ought to be treated differently. This is something that I could not accept and my days in the party soon came to an abrupt end.

Having had a cursory insight into the game of politics, and a bit of what I see happening in the business world, I then started blogging, especially upon hearing the abuses of politicians and the corruption that goes on unabated amongst civil servants; and members of the Armed Forces is no exception. If one cared to read all my earlier articles, I have never failed to criticize the failings and abuses within the Armed Forces, especially when it involves senior officers who are known to have enrich themselves through their unscrupulous dealings with contractors etc. I am most thankful to the current leadership of the Armed Forces and including the three services, where talks of corruption by local businessmen has somewhat simmered. I am not saying that corruption has been totally eradicated in the Armed Forces, for I know that there are still some hard cores who continue to take bribes from contractors/suppliers, especially those officers with the authority to issue the notorious Local Purchase Orders (LPO). I will be keeping a close watch on them, for I know who they are by just looking at their lifestyle.

CRUSADE AGSAINST CORRUPTION

FLOOD RELIEF OPERATIONS – THE ROLE OF THE ARMY

Orders are out for the Armed Forces (I presume the Army) to get out to undertake flood relief operations in states affected by floods that is raging Southern Peninsular. This may be the largest floods ever to hit the affected states since the big floods in early 70’s. I suppose the Air Force role here is logistic support as well as to perform evacuation tasks.

I remembered back in late 1969 when my battalion had just returned to Kluang, Johore from a year’s tour of duty in Tawau, and upon arriving Kluang Railway Station, we were ordered to be deployed into various areas affected by floods in Batu Pahat, Parit Sulung and areas in and around Kluang itself.

Having just arrived Kluang, we were caught with a task that we were not familiar with. And to make matters worse, we were ill equipped for the task. The battalion had six assault boats and the OBM’s were unreliable. I remembered having to be deployed to Parit Sulong with just a Land Rover vehicle, and without the support of any assault boats. Now what could I do with just one Land Rover? There is no way that I could assist with the evacuation plans (if there was any), and neither could I help in providing the affected people with the supply of food.

I remembered too that there was no comprehensive and coordinated effort by other agencies (government or otherwise) then to assist flood relief operations. We were virtually operating on our own reporting my activities to the Battalion Headquarters. I suppose the situation now is no different from the experiences that I had in the late 60’s and early 70’s with regards to flood relief operations, in terms of the army’s readiness to deal effectively with flood relief operations.

It must be well understood that the army is never equipped for flood relief operations, and neither should that operations be the responsibility of the army. The assault boats/OBM’s held by infantry battalions is insufficient for any effective and meaningful flood relief operations. I think this deficiency is a well known fact to all army commanders, and if the civilians are hoping that the army is the most appropriate agency to support flood relief operations, then I would say that such hopes may prove wrong.

Flood relief operation requires the participation of a number of civilian agencies, and it is best controlled and coordinated by the civilian; in this instant and rightly so by the National Security Council (NSC) at the national level, with subordinate councils at state and district level. The Armed Forces role is merely in support of the operations.

Now, if the government fully recognizes that the Armed Forces can play a significant, effective and meaningful role in support of flood relief operations, then the Armed Forces and in particular the army, must be better equipped than it is today. Unfortunately, this is not well understood by many, and the assumption that the ‘army can do all’ is a misnomer.

If I may be permitted to suggest what would the additional equipments needed by the army to play a more effective role in flood relief operations, I would say that they would need lots of hand held short range radio sets (walkie talkie), life jackets, light assault boats and inflatable rubber boats. These additional equipments (though not conclusive) need not be kept by the army, but by a dedicated agency that is centrally located and under the purview of the respective security councils.

With the many incidences of floods that the country had experience, I believe there is an increasing and continuous need to better plan to effectively deal with future floods relief operations, and including the handling of natural disasters. And in this regards, I believe the Armed Forces will continue to play a significant role in support of its civilian counterpart and the nation, when assistance is needed.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

AN ASSOCIATION OF SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES

I have long harbored the idea of forming an association comprising of sons and daughters of members of the Malaysian Armed Forces; both retired and serving. It all started some time ago when I met a group of young ladies having their evening tea together at KLCC; one of whom is the daughter of an Army colleague of mine. I greeted her and she then introduced me to all her friends who to my surprise are all daughters of officers of the Malaysian Armed Forces. All of them are doing well in the career, and this triggered the idea that why can’t these young people get together to form a larger association. I would like to look at the example of ANAK, a highly successful association formed by children of FELDA settlers.

ANAK is actively involved in voicing the plight of all FELDA settlers, in particular issues that affect the management of all FELDA schemes throughout the country. Whilst we recognize that FELDA was created to provide opportunities for Bumiputra’s participation in the plantation industry, it is now saddled with a number of problems caused primarily by gross mismanagement, abuses and possibly corruption by unscrupulous FELDA officials that have gone unnoticed for so long. Recently, FELDA settlers had brought cases of mismanagement by FELDA officials to the courts, resulting in the courts awarding large monetary compensation to the settlers. I believe new cases will emerge in the not too distant future that will pose a challenge for the newly minted FELDA’s Chairman.

I have been talking to a number of people whose fathers have served the Malaysian Armed Forces. I found that many are doing well in their career, and are holding high positions both in the public and in the private sector. I am not suggesting that this association (should it be formed) be involved in politics, but rather they be free from the abuses of politics, just like their fathers were when serving the Armed Forces.

What I need is someone who is committed and acceptable to the idea of forming such an association, in the belief that they being sons and daughters of members of the Armed Force can play a meaningful and productive role in society. In other words, this association serves to continue the sacrifices and contributions made by all servicemen towards society and the nation.

As I have indicated above, this association must remain apolitical, and is focused in creating an establish network of friends of the Armed Forces and promoting good values. Of course, the association has to define its purpose and objectives, and this can only be done through some brainstorming sessions by some protem members. Perforce, this association has to be led by a son or daughter of a member of the Armed Forces (serving or otherwise), and whose members are exclusively sons and daughters of members of the Armed Forces.

I wish not to say more, and my only hope is to get some responses from my readers to know whether this proposition on the creation of an association of sons and daughters of members of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ASDAF) is a viable proposition or otherwise.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

A RESOUNDING WELCOME AWAITS MALAYSIAN VOLUNTEERS

Since Monday 31st May incident of the Israeli commando raid on MV Mavi Mamara that was part of a 6 vessels Gaza bound flotilla carrying humanitarian aid for the Palestinians entrapped in Gaza, the local mainstream media, both electronic and print, has been abuzz reporting almost minute by minute, the development surrounding the incident that have left 9 dead and 60 injured.

On board the MV Mavi Mamara were 12 Malaysian volunteers who represented various NGOs, besides a number of other international volunteers. There were also 6 other Malaysian volunteers on board MV Racheal Corrie that was seized by Israel, and all have since been released. The government had also dispatched the Foreign Minister to Jordan to ensure the safety of all Malaysian volunteers, this despite having an Ambassador in that Kingdom.

What caught my attention is the reaction of some Malaysians (politicians included) that I term as overzealous, relegating local thriving issues to the back burner. The nation is now hotly debating serious economic and social drawbacks that are likely to impact the well being of the Malaysian population in the new future, but this issue somehow does not appeal to the mainstream media. Even the unsettling ‘prediction’ by Senator Idris Jala recently that this country will go bankrupt in less than a decade from today, is not well received by some from within the government itself. His prediction they say is off tangent to reality.

And setting aside the massive financial debacle by some large corporation like the PKFZ and more recently Sime Darby, the government finds it expedient to shove up the issue of the Israeli raiding incident as a prominent national issue that overrides the economic and social woes that Malaysian will be expecting. Even UMNO Youth leader Khairy who had completed a month stint with the army territorial is ready to fight to save Palestine from the marauding Israeli commandos. I just wonder if the one month army stint was enough for Khairy to shoot straight with his rifle.

I had just read that the returning Malaysian volunteers will be received by DPM Muhyidin Yassin at KLIA, and I am sure he will be accompanied by a motorcade of ministers, deputy ministers and senior government officials, besides the car load of UMNO supporters (Puteri UMNO likely to be included) with welcoming banners to add colour to the fiesta. And the welcoming party does not end there. The volunteers will then be driven to meet the PM presumably for a cup of tea, but hopefully not to the garlanded and be officially accorded national heroes.

In my 34 years in the army, I am yet to see any returning component of the military that had successfully served with distinction on UN Peacekeeping missions all over the world, returning home to be received with such exuberance, pomp and splendor on a scale accorded to the returning Malaysian volunteers. When I returned from UN Peacekeeping mission in Cambodia on July 4th 1993, after 15 months duty, my returning troops was received by the 7th Brigade Commander, Brig Gen Abdullah Ghani only.

We were not at all disappointed. At least we had a Brigade Commander who cared.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MORE ARMED FORCES CAMPS FOR SALE – TRUE OR FALSE?

I have just received a note in my post box this morning that I want to share with all my readers, the contents of which is appended below. I do not know whether the note is written in jest, or is it the truth. I will leave it for all to judge.

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ARMED FORCES CAMPS FOR SALE

Following the recent sale of the RMAF base in Sg. Besi, Kuala Lumpur, the government has now offered for bidding several other Armed Forces camps as under:
1. RMAF base Subang, Selangor
2. RMN base Lumut, Perak
3. Army base Camp Mahkota, Kluang, Johor
4. Mindef complex, Jalan Padang Tembak, Kuala Lumpur
5. Army camp, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
6. Army camp Terendak, Melaka
7. Army Camp Kuantan, Pahang
8. RMAF base Kuantan, Pahang
9. Army base Kuching, Sarawak
The above camps are not conclusive, and more Armed Forces camps will be offered for bidding in the next 6 months. There is no price tag offered, and the winning bidder is one that offers the highest price quote. Bidders are advised to submit along a full detail of what they proposed to do with the camps. End.
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Since no mention is made with regards to the evicted units and occupants of the above camps, I therefore assume that the units will be disbanded to save cost that is likely to be incurred by the government.

Can someone please confirm whether the above note is true or otherwise?


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

TO HATE OR NOT TO HATE

About month or so, I have been receiving comments aimed at discrediting me for my writings, which hitherto has not been too obvious. Personally, I do not mind their criticism of me, as I am a strong adherent and advocate of the freedom of speech and expression. I too do not take offence of anything they say against me, because I strongly believe that being human, each and everyone is born different; hence I don’t expect others to have the same patience that Allah swt has bestowed upon me.

I will be acting foolish, if I were to retaliate with anger in responding to the comments made by those who are adverse to my writings. Anger is one that I do not possess, and it is quite difficult for anyone to make me angry, and those who have served me knows this too well. If there is the slightest anger, I will just turn around and walk out, rather than to be confrontational and make a fool of myself. This is exactly what my late father had taught me.

Actually, I am what I am, because I hate to lose friends…the good ones I mean. And I can assure every one of my readers that all the friends that I have are good.

With regards to the sudden surge in some ‘nasty’ comments from some readers, I know this will happen about a month ago. I was informed about it by someone who cares for what I do, and shares a similar desire as mine i.e. to rid the Armed Forces of corrupt officers, regardless of the rank and stature. In fact, I have a slight indication as to who these person(s) are, and I also know that they have done it not on their own accord.

To those who persist that they should go on discrediting me, my only answer to them is to please go on doing what they are suppose to do. Honestly, I am neither hurt nor offended, and I will continue to pray to Allah to give me guidance, and if I do wrong, I seek forgiveness from them and from Allah, but if they are wrong, please seek forgiveness from Allah.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

ERRATUM

I received an SMS last night from a reader citing that I have been erroneous in some facts that I have stated relating to the acquisition of the 8 x8 FNSS AFV (refer to article titled ‘Billions in defence deal clinched at DSA 2010 dated April 22, 2010). The point in contention relates to a statement that I made i.e. that due to the weight of the AFV, in all probability it will sink in our terrain; hence “ deploying them in dry padi land and oil palm/rubber estate is out of the question”.

The facts mentioned by the reader I quote, “When we did our trial 4 or 5 years back, we were doing the trial most of the time during rainy season. The paya (marshy) areas that we were in were damn soggy and bloody soft, worst that wet padi field. I didn’t remember we got stranded in muddy areas. I can certify to you as the expert in this field, my MSC degree in Weapon and Vehicle System, all the three 8 x 8 we tested including PATRIA, PARS and MOWAG went through wet ground test inclusive padi field with flying colours. I can also assure you the ground pressure of most world 8 x 8 is small enough to operate in our padi field”.

I do not wish to dispute the above statement made by an expert who was involved in the trial, and wish to acknowledge and assume responsibility that I may have misled my readers into believing what I have written.

Be that as it may, my position with regards to a statement that the 8 x 8 AFV regardless of model and manufacturer) is too cumbersome for the Malaysian terrain still remains. I am of the opinion that a smaller, lighter and a well armed AFV is the better choice. After all, it is the weapons systems used that are critical in battle.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MY DESIRE OF AN INCORRUPTIBLE ARMED SERVICE

I received a number of interesting comments over an article that I wrote recently titled, 'Rifled or Smooth Bore Mortar'. Although some of the commentors may have deviated from the topic; but all the same, I am thoroughly pleased with the depth of information that I get from the comments.

I must say that commentors such as Askarsusu, Tamingsari, Capt's Longhouse, Maurice and the ever critical Kommando, have made some interesting revelation that I think requires a thorough investigation by the authorities, to confirm the veracity of what has been commented. Now the question is..........whose job it is to investigate? Since the comments raised pertains to issues of alleged improprieties affecting the workings within the armed service, I would have thought that the investigation should be done by the Military Police (MP). But I doubt very much the results of any investigation carried out by the MP will be meaningful; in particular if it affects some of the bosses. To investigate without fear or favour by the MPs may not be truly applicable in this instant. I maybe wrong here, and I stand to be corrected.

I would like to raise two issues brought out by Askarsusu; firstly, a comment he made that the Weststar vehicles purchased by army recently will only use a special brand of lubricant (I suppose, Askarsusu is referring to the engine oil) that I am told is only supplied by suppliers of the vehicles. If this statement is true, I would say that only fools would want to agree to such a purchase. Pardon me for saying this. And what is so special of the engine that it requires a special brand of lubricant? Is the engine of the Weststar vehicle something of an F/A 18 jet engine?

Another commentor did write to say that the manufacturer of the Weststar vehicle (a UK company) has ceased manufacturing the vehicles, and questioned the future supplies of spare parts. Will this be another fiasco, whereupon the failure to obtain a regular supply of spare parts in the next few years, will see the vehicles go into oblivion, and a strong justification for a new set of vehicles to be purchased?

Secondly, Askarsusu also commented on the removal of some officers at the Equipment Branch, Department of Army who are seen to be in deference of the bosses views (or is it demands) over some technical evaluation reports. Some officers are said to have even left the service, out of pride that they do not wish to be working in cohorts with the selfish and personal wishes of the bosses. This is a serious allegation, that demands an investigation, if the army is desirous in wanting to rid such improprieties by some unscrupulous bosses.

There was also a comment which says that many senior servicing officers do not favour my writings. To them, I have only this to say i.e. if my writing hurts, then there must be something in them that is awfully wrong. If is does not hurt, then my advice is for them to realised that what I do is to correct what is seriously wrong, in the hope that the armed services will remain truly a professional and incorruptible service.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

WITHER THE MAINTENANCE CULTURE

I wish to refer to an article I had posted on December 9, 2009 regarding the intended phasing out of the Mikoyan Gurevich MiG-29N by the RMAF, and of a similar topic posted by Tun Dr. Mahathir in his weblog on December 28, 2009. I think, Tun Dr. Mahathir and I share a similar view concerning the phasing out of the aircraft, in that we are of the opinion that the aircrafts are still good for a number of more years.

I now wish to draw my readers to an article written by one Siva Govindasamy titled, 'Malaysia to phase out troublesome MiG-29 fighter' dated June 6, 2009, in which he wrote that 'Malaysia has announced plans to phase out its RSK MiG-29N fighter over the next few years, with the fleet having been plagued by problems since it bought the type in the early 1990s'. He went further to say that, 'Malaysia has encountered problems in obtaining spares for its 14 MiG-29s, and that maintenance has been a issue for a long while'.(http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/06/03/32)

Siva Govindasamy has made statements that need to be further substantiated with facts and figures; not bare statements that appears to have a 'business-like' overtone. If one is looking for an authority to speak on the subject, it can only come from the RMAF themselves. I do not believe any other person nor any authority is wise enough to make any judgment on the serviceability state of the MiG-29N aircraft, other than the RMAF.

I did suggest that we should look at how the Indian Air Force (IAF) with its huge fleet of MiG-29s, can maintain its fleet for a much longer period than does Malaysia. There must be something that we can learn for the IAF experience, if indeed the RMAF is plagued by problems in the acquisition of spares and maintenance. I suppose it would not be economically viable to begin manufacturing aircraft spares and components for the MiG-29s, but if the spares and components are difficult to procure from its Russian OEM, why not look at the possibility of purchasing them from India, who are licensed to manufacture the spares and components.

Changing of aircrafts is not like changing our clothes; like I used to do on 'change parades' during my days as an army cadet. Changing of aircrafts involves a multitude of issues ranging from the training of personnels (pilots, technicians etc) and logistics, and every bit of this costs money.

One may argue that with the change of aircraft, Malaysian air force pilots will have the advantage of engaging themselves with the latest in aircraft technologies. But that was similarly the case when we bought the F/A-18D Honets, BAe Hawk 208 and now the SU-30 MKM. But what technologies have we acquired, other than be experts at flying a variety of aircrafts.

I note a similar trend happening to the army. The buying and changing culture never ceases in the army, with the notion of a transfer of technology. Had the army been serious with this term that they so commonly refer to as the 'transfer of technology' in their procurement exercises, they would not have been discarding their capital equipments purchased at exorbitant prices too often. I think the fault lies in the unwillingness of the army, and likewise its sister services, to be serious in developing an expert maintenance capability that is comparable to the OEM. It is because of this failure that the costs of maintenance is high, and who tends to gain.................surely it is the OEM and its local agents.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

ARMED FORCES RETIREES NEED TO BECOME A STRONG VOICE OF REASON

Having been a blogger since June last year, and I having read the comments of my readers, especially those whom I believe to be either serving or retired military officers, have subscribed strong, constructive as well as contentious views and opinion concerning the issues that I had raised in my postings.Never mind the language that some have used, but the fact of the matter is that the readers are willing to make their views and opinion heard, which hitherto has been silent and unheard of. That's the wonder of the blogging world, and I will always take my readers views, comments and opinion to be well intended.

The same goes to my civilian readers who now have access to the myriad of issues relating to the Armed Forces, and to be able to share and to subscribe an 'impartial or an outside view' that was not forthcoming in the past. This have given me an all round perspective of how a particular issue that I have raised in my postings are being viewed by all parties.

I am an advocate of strong and critical view, and I do not mind if someone says that the issues relating to the Armed Forces that I write is garbage. Whatever word that is being used against my writings; be it garbage, rubbish or any other derogatory term is a trivial matter to me. What is more important to me is that by having to say something that I have long haboured in my mind, gives me a complete sense of relieve and satisfaction.

I know that there are many others (retired/serving military officers and civilians alike) who are like me out there, but they are not able to find the opportunity to say their piece, or they may have something that inhibits them from doing so. This has to be respected, for there can be no two people who are alike in ever way.

Now, this reminds me of the many retired military officers that I know off, who have continued to speak out, but are not able to attract enough audience for their views to be heard. In my many casual meetings and 'coffee shop talks' with some of them, I noticed that they have a lot to speak about; not limited to the affairs of the present Armed Forces only, but over a myriad of issues that are afflicting the nation today. Being out of their uniforms now, they believe they have every responsibility to act as a 'voice of reason' to checkmate what they believe is improper and outrageously being done against public interest by the various authorities and the powers that be.

Most whom I know are not interested in being members of a political party because the mindset of a retired military officers cannot cohabit with that of politicians. I know this because I was a member of a political party upon my retirement, but force myself to quit because my military training have taught me to perceive and do things quite differently from of politicians. What I hate most is to see an ill discipline member during meetings, and the talk usually revolves around how best to serve the members first, and not to society as a whole.

There are today thousands of retired officers and soldiers that can be a formidable voice of reason for the purpose explained above. They do not need to be in politics, but what is needed is a strong leadership that can harness a voice that is coherent enough to act as a checkmate against the abuses of the authorities and powers that be towards our society. Certainly, the Ex-Servicemen Association cannot be that voice because it is seen to be political with vested interest by a few.

I know that, that a strong leadership is out there somewhere, and it will only be time when the retired officers and soldiers can be reunited again, not at arms in defence of the nation, but at 'arms' in defence of what is righteous, and to discard what is wrongful.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

A SPAT BETWEEN A MINISTER AND A RETIRED COLONEL – ALL SHOULD BE FORGOTTEN

Over the last few days there has been lots of talk among retired military officers of a spat between a retired officer of the Royal Malay Regiment, Colonel Roseli and the Defence Minister Dato Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi over a statement made by the latter when officiating the Annual Meeting of the Ex-Servicemen Association in Seremban on Sunday 4th ,1009, that had angered Colonel Roseli.

Colonel Roseli who in his blog (colroseli.blogspot.com) have said that the words uttered by the minister at the meeting was offensive to retired senior military officers as well as soldiers of the other races, and is also likely to cause a rift between retired officers and the soldiers. Colonel Roseli wasn't specific as regards to what the minister had actually said, and this leaves the matter open to speculations. Colonel Roseli had also demanded that the minister makes a public apology in order to put the matter to rest.

I am not privy to what had actually transpired between Colonel Roseli and the minister following this matter.But if the claim by Colonel Roseli proves to be true, then this will be the first exposure ever that a retired military officer has the audacity to parry with a minister over what he (Colonel Roseli) claims to be wrongful. On the other hand, if the minister believes that his speech has been misconstrued, he then need to correct it so that this matter does not get out of hand.

I am not here to make a judgment, nor do I wish to widen the issue any further. But I am aware that this matter has caused deep concern among some retired senior officers of the Armed Forces whose past service to the King and country is unquestionable. This concern need to be arrested and address in the most amicable manner so as not to cause dissension among the retired senior officers. This is also to quell any negative views concerning the minister.

Many have given their lives in defence of the nation, and for anybody to say that they now no longer care for the nation and the soldiers that had once served them is mischievous and hurting. It certainly hurts me if some one says that to me, because my loyalty to King and country is not only when I was in uniform, but it is life long.

The same is felt by all serving and retired officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces. Loyalty is a supreme factor in the Armed Forces, and without it, there can never be an Armed Forces.

And I can also say with much certainty that the officers loyalty to their soldiers is also life long. But to continue to provide physical care to them and their families should no longer be the burden of the retired officers, but other government institutions including the Ex-Servicemen Association and the Veteran Affairs Department.

I, and including many other retired officers of the Armed Forces do hope that the spat between the minister and Colonel Roseli can be resolved amicably and any animosity that arose out of it should be forgiven and forgotten.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE SUDDEN DEPARTURE OF THE ARMED FORCES CHIEF IS ABNORMAL

The change over of leadership of the Armed Forces recently had come as a surprise to most and to some, it was expected. I have to wait a while to understand why this sudden an 'abnormal' departure of the former Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Tan Sri Gen Abd Aziz Zainal who apparently left without the grandeur of the military parades, dinning out, farewell visits to formations as well as a call upon his foreign counterparts, especially those from within ASEAN.

I did seek an explanation from some serving officers and those retirees regarding the sudden departure of Gen Aziz Zainal, but many agreed that for whatever the reason, it was improper for the government to have allowed Gen Aziz Zainal to leave in such a haste. Never has there been an occasion where a CDF had left the military service in a manner that Gen Aziz Zainal did. The least would have been for the Armed Forces to honour him in a farewell parade that all outgoing CDF truly deserve.

I do not wish to speculate nor do I wish to say anything that will embarrass Gen Aziz Zainal. But I sense that there is something seriously wrong, and this will only allow serving officers and especially those retired senior military officers to come in defence of their kind, and to perceive that the government has not given due recognition, respect and honour to a retiring CDF. Certainly, I am one of those who have a similar perception.

I am told that Gen Aziz Zainal was to have retired in August 2007 at the age of 56 then, but upon his appointment as the CDF in February 2007, he was offered to serve for one year considered from his effective date of appointment as the CDF, that would expire end of January 2008. He was once again offered another year of service that expires end of January 2009, just short of approximately 6 months to his 58th birth date, that is now the new compulsory retiring age of all senior military officers. On completing his second extension at the end of January 2009, he was again offered to serve until his handing over on September 1, 2009. I am told too that he is now on 5 months resettlement leave until 31 January 2010. In all, Gen Aziz Zainal had served as the CDF for approximately 2 years and 6 months.

I am baffled as how the government, in particular the Ministry of Defence could announced Gen Aziz Zainal's handing over to the newly named CDF just within days after the Armed Forces Council sitting. My experience tells me that the Armed Forces Council decision on the appointment of the new CDF will require the prior sanction of His Majesty the King before an official announcement can be made, and this usually takes a bit of time.

Whatever the circumstances that led to a decision regarding the appointment of the new CDF, I deemed that the departure of Gen Aziz Zainal as abrupt and does not conform to the military norms that have been accorded to all previous CDFs. One must understand the status and standing of the CDF in the Armed Forces and our society, and it only leaves a bad taste to know the manner in which Gen Aziz Zainal had departed from the military service.

Let there not be a similar occurrence like this, and having served as a staff in the Armed Forces Personnel Division, it would not be wrong for me to say that the blame should be shouldered by that Division as well as the Ministry's Chief Secretary, who is also the Secretary to the Armed Forces Council.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

EXTENSION OF SERVICE......ARE WE NOT INDISPENSIBLE?

There is presently a raging debate as to whether there is a need for the government to further extend the services of the IGP Tan Sri Musa Hassan. From the statements made by various quarters including politicians from both the political divide, there is an obvious split with one party in favour, while another is against an extension. The opposition is firmly of the view that Tan Sri Musa Hassan's services should not be extended, and the government has yet to to make a final decision, although rumours are abound of a probable extension.

The opposition alleged that Tan Sri Musa Hassan was involved in trampling evidences and miscarriage of justice in the Anwar Ibrahim's 'black eye' incident in 1998 involving former IGP Rahim Noor. But the investigation on the aforesaid allegation carried out by MACC in March this year, cleared Tan Sri Musa Hassan and AG Gani Patail of any wrong doing. Anwar Ibrahim who is now facing a second sodomy charge is ardament that Tan Sri Musa Hassan's extension of service may have influence the on going trial that would favour the prosecution; a fear that will normally be felt by someone who is likely to face a 20 years jail sentence, if found guilty.

Tengku Razaleigh in an article posted in his blog dated July 14, 2009 had claimed that the “extension of service is meant to be an extraordinary measure. It is in danger of becoming a norm. This is bad practice”. And he went further to list out 5 astonishing reasons for his disapproval, and the one that caught my attention was when he wrote that “Public servants owe their allegiance to King and country, not to politicians. It is by an accumulation of bad practices like this that the once independent ethos of the civil service has been eroded”.

I have no reasons to argue and to disapprove what Tengku Razaleigh had written that is wise, bold and truly a masterpiece of a statement that cannot be ignored by the government, and more so by the head of the public service. It is a strong and damning statement, but somehow politicians in their new found fame as the Yang Berhormat have forgotten that they do not own the civil service (Armed Forces included), and neither should the public service to be treated subserviently by the political masters. A conflict of interest between public servants and politicians have been known to occur in the past, but in the end it is the former that is to suffer the consequences. One has only to follow the consequences that led to the charges of bribery labeled against Tourism Board Director General Dato Mirza Taiyab, to understand what politicians can do to an innocent public servant, if the politician's personal interests is not served by the public servant. It is a demeaning act by a politician, to say the least.

The Armed Forces is now facing a similar predicament as with its police counterpart. It is rumoured that the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) who is presently on a year's extended service, and scheduled to retire in September, is said to seek a second extension. If this is true, the Chief of Air Force who is the most senior of the three service chiefs, and a likely candidate for the exulted position of the CDF , is most unlikely to get a promotion, and neither will it be the Chief of Army, since both are scheduled to retire next year. And if a second extension is indeed granted to the incumbent CDF, it will be the Chief of Navy who will most likely succeed the post of CDF upon the retirement of the incumbent CDF. This gives the navy a second opportunity to the exulted post of the CDF, and never once for the air force.

If someone were to ask me of my personal opinion regarding the above, I would just say that the practise of extending the services of the chiefs including the CDF must cease. There is no justifiable reason, nor does it makes any professional sense to offer an extension, because the post of the CDF could be taken over by either one of the three service chiefs who are competent and capable enough to take over the post of the CDF at any given point of time. And by virtue of their high ranking position, seniority and experience, it is absurd to now say that neither one is ready to become the CDF, as a justification to retain the incumbent for an extended term. In short, I would say that no one person is indispensable in the Armed Forces, regardless of the position one holds.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MORE CAN BE DONE FOR SOLDIERS

I read two interesting statements made by Defence Minister YB Dato Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently. The first being the need to increase the allowances of the Army Commandos befitting the nature of their job, and secondly, the desire to see that soldiers own affordable homes prior to their retirement, and are gainfully employed in a second vocation. I applaud such statements, and I believe the soldiers are equally enlightened by it.

The Army Commandos, and similarly the elite units of the other two sister services i.e. Navy and Air Force should not be left out in any consideration for an increase in their allowances and benefits. I am not privy to the nature of the allowances, but I suppose it has to do with the training skills and hardship while serving in the elite force. I have no doubt as to their capabilities, professionalism and the extreme risk they face in the performance of their duties. And for this, one should not be envious of the little extra income that they get by being a member of the commandos. One has only to witness the grueling and nerve wrenching training that these special breed of soldiers have to go through, to qualify for the exulted green or maroon beret.

Getting an affordable home upon their retirement has always been a primary desire of soldiers. Soldiers would generally prefer retiring back to their kampung, and to be closer to the surau and mosque. It is not surprising if one were to find that the Bilal or the Imam of a mosque in some of the kampung are ex-soldiers.

However, returning to the kampung upon retirement may not be welcomed by the soldier’s children nowadays. Military camps are no longer in isolated areas, but are now in the vicinity of major towns and cities. Hence, the children are more exposed to urban life, attend urban schools and later are admitted to colleges and universities. And once they enter the job market, they generally remain in cities and towns. Hence, the demand for houses for soldiers, either for those still in service or are retired, are greater in urban rather than back in their kampung.

I applaud too, the proposal by the Defence Minister to apportioned government land assigned to the ministry, to be developed for individually owned homes for soldiers. I suppose the end result will be affordable and better houses, since the land cost would be cheaper. Another advantage to this proposal is that the soldiers who throughout their military career have been living alongside one another in military quarters, will again be residing together within the same housing complex upon their retirement. The families are therefore able to maintain a social life, and the kind of neighborhood that they are so accustomed to, while residing within a military complex. Hopefully, a soldier like me, and many others who have retired for more than a decade, can also benefit from this proposal.

With regards to a second vocation, this has always been the desire of the government to ensure that soldiers are provided some form of training that will be useful to them upon retirement. Soldiers, particularly the lower ranks normally retire at an early age; normally in their early 40’s where most still have school going children to take care for. Merely living off their pension may not be sufficient; hence they will need to labour on with some form of a vocation to meet their family obligation.

This is where institutions like the Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT) and PERHEBAT plays an important role to ensure that soldiers are not neglected in retirement. I am told that LTAT is cash rich from money derived from soldiers contribution, and why not use the money to create businesses, wherein soldiers can be employed upon completion of the training provided by PERHEBAT that is fully funded by the government.

We know that soldiers of the Armed Forces are trained in various skills e.g. mechanics, electricians, welders, brick layers, carpenters, machinist, vehicle and heavy machine operators, deep sea divers, trainers, workshop management, and many more. I suppose managing an outfit like SPANCO should not pose a problem, since the skills needed to manage a vehicle maintenance and repair workshop is in abundance among members of the Armed Forces. LTAT could easily take over the management of SPANCO to be managed and operated by retired soldiers with the required technical and managerial skills.

Similarly, the Oil and Gas industry (O&G) pays a handsome salary for its skilled workers, such as welders, technicians and deep sea divers. In this regard, PERHEBAT could provide enhancement training to the soldiers with such basic skills, meeting the standards of the O&G industry, with the view of an employment in the industry.

Another profitable business that LTAT could look at is to go into animal farming e,g goats and cattle. There is a huge consumption for meat in the country, and the supply does not always meet the demand of consumers. Hence, meat is being imported from overseas whose halal status for Muslim consumers is reasonably in doubt. I am told that even the religious authorities dared not claim that all imported animal carcass (either whole or cut) are halal, and if this is true, who then could guarantee that all imported meat can be consumed by Muslims? It is for this reason that I forbid my wife from buying imported meat, although it is reasonably cheaper than local meat.

A lot more can be done for the betterment and welfare of members of the Armed Forces, either while in service, and even more upon their retirement. Allowing retired soldiers to become taxi drivers and security guards should no longer be the only vocation befitting retired soldiers, but the creation of entrepreneurs and a highly skilled work force should be the ultimate.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

A TRIBUTE TO LANCE CORPORAL AMIN CHE ROS

I share the sorrow and grief of the family of the late Lance Corporal Amin Che Ros, an army commando who plunged to his death after his parachute failed to activate, during a training exercise in Kulim, Kedah on Thursday, June 11, 2009. He leaves behind a wife, Puan Rosnita Othman and two young children ages 5 and 3. I pay tribute to this brave and loyal soldier, and that his passing away is not in vain.

As soldiers, especially those serving with the elite forces, they are constantly faced with the threat of certain death or injuries that could maimed them for life, while on training. These soldiers are a very special breed of men who are trained to take challenges, however dangerous it may be, in defence of the nation. It is sad though, that men of our elite forces have had little publicity; hence little is known about them. And in the eyes of the public, they seemed not to understand what the Army is composed off, and the roles they play in war and peace. Likewise, little is known of its sister service i.e. the Air Force and the Navy.

While the police force has dedicated TV programmes depicting them as crime busters and law enforcers, the Armed Forces has none. And this is where the Public Relations office of the Ministry of Defence has failed miserably in projecting the image of the Armed Forces to the public. One has to understand that the Armed Forces is built on public funds, and it is only proper that the tax payers knows how such funds has been utilised to serve the betterment of the Armed Forces. The public must be afforded the confidence that the Armed Forces is credible enough to ensure their safety, as well as the security of the nation; not just displaying to the public how gorgeous the soldiers looks on parade.

Turning back to the late Lance Corporal Amin Che Ros, it is heartening to note the statement made by the Defence Minister Dato Dr. Ahmad Zahid, that the family of the decease will be looked after by the service, and especially the two children, who will grow up not really knowing how their father had died. I sincerely hope the statement by the Defence Minister will be honoured, and that the Veteran Affairs department will closely monitor the welfare and well being of Puan Rosnita Othman and her two children, and all other families that had lost their loved ones in the course of duty.

Never will the Armed Forces allow the wives and children of our soldiers who have died honourably, to suffer a life of neglect and despair.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

CONGRATULATIONS, AND ARE SENIOR OFFICERS OF THE ARMED FORCES NOT A DESERVING LOT?

I wish to take this opportunity to convey my heartiest congratulations to the following retired army officers who have been conferred with awards by the SPB Yang DiPertuan Agong, on the occasion of his birthday on June 6th 2009.

Former Chief of Army, Jen Dato Seri Mohd Shahrom bin Dato Hj. Nordin (Retired) conferred the Panglima Setia Makhota (PSM) which carries the honorific title of Tan Sri.

Former Commandant Armed Forces Defence College, Mej Jen Lai Chung Wah (Retired) conferred the Panglima Jasa Negara (PJN) which carries the honorific title of Datuk.

Former Chief of Army Logistics, Mej Jen Abdul Rahman bin Khamis, PGB (Retired) conferred the Panglima Jasa Negara (PJN) which carries the honorific title of Datuk.


There are still several other high ranking officers of the Armed Forces who have retired, and are not conferred with either a state or federal award. I note that there are even some high ranking officers who have been chief of their respective service (Army, Navy and Air Force) have not been conferred the PSM that carries the honorific title of Tan Sri, which they rightly deserve as head of the service.

I would also like to recall the rather late conferement of the Seri Setia Makhota (SSM) upon Jen Ibrahim Ismail which carries the honorific title of Tun, only after 33 years of his retirement as Chief of Defence Forces; the highest rank attained in the Armed Forces. He was conferred the SSM in 2002.

To members of the Armed Forces and to the entire nation, Jen Tun Ibrahim Ismail is the only living military officer to have served the country during second World War, the first Malayan Emergency, Indo-Malaysia Confrontation, and served part of the 'Second Malaysian Emergency”

He was the Chief of Defence Force during the 1969 racial riots, and was also the National Operations Council, Chief Executive Officer appointed by then Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak. For his undivided loyalty and service to the nation, Jen Tun Ibrahim Ismail should have been conferred the SSM even while he was in service, and many among the military circle are dumb founded as to the reasons why Jen Tun Ibrahim Ismail was only conferred the SSM at a frail age of 78, and after 33 years of retired life.

I wish to make no comparison with other senior government officers who were conferred the SSM or PSM while they were still in service, but certainly I wish to say that the senior officers of the Armed Forces does seemed to have somewhat been neglected in this regards.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

DOES THE PRESS HAVE NOTHING BETTER TO REPORT?

While reading the New Straits Times today (Friday, April 24, 2009), I noticed a small article on page 13, titled ‘Soldiers return from Lebanon’ placed at the bottom right of the page. The content of the article is so small that one could hardly noticed it.

As an ex-soldier, I believe the press has not fair to the returning soldiers who had just returned home from peacekeeping duties in troubled Lebanon. I dare say now that NST is really not interested in giving such a report any importance, because I think they view such reports has no news value. I may be wrong in saying this, but that is how I feel having to see such an article being place at an insignificant corner of a page.

I wish to compare this to a report made sometimes ago of a group of free-fall parachute jumpers who had returned home after a successful jump in the North pole, together with a Proton car. The group upon returning home were hailed as HEROES and were treated to a grand reception at the airport, complete with press and TV coverage and interviews. Of course, the leader of the group was a politician, and the jumpers were former Mat Rempits.

Here, we have a group of soldiers who were deployed in front line duties in Lebanon, and having to be separated from their families for more than six months, and are not quite certain of ever returning home, should there be an outbreak of hostilities between the warring factions in Lebanon. I am fully aware of the threats and difficulties faced by our soldiers on peacekeeping duties in Lebanon, because I had a similar experience in Cambodia. There is no denying that peacekeeping duties is not an easy tasks to perform, and yet the Malaysian press finds that the return of our soldiers is not worth the news. It would have been better for the press not to have made a report at all.

My hope is that the Defence Ministry public relations office takes a serious note of this issue, and to portray a better reporting of our soldiers return from peacekeeping duties in future


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION