The Malaysian Defence Ministry (MINDEF) is set to receive MYR 19.7 billion (USD 4.2 billion) in the Budget 2024 allocation, while the Malaysian Home Ministry will be allocated MYR 19 billion (USD 4 billion). The focus of the budget will be on acquiring new assets to enhance the country’s defense and security preparedness.
The priority is given to maintaining and improving the capabilities and readiness of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), including its three branches: the Army (TDM), Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF). TDM is slated to acquire 60 infantry-armored vehicles, 50 high-mobility light tactical vehicles, six hovercraft-integrated fast interceptors, and 733 support vehicles of various types, including 45 boats. The RMN will continue its procurement of three littoral mission ships (LMS) and undertake the refurbishment of two submarine assets, while the RMAF is set to receive 12 new helicopters.
Additionally, the government aims to bolster maritime assets, including the acquisition of 45 army boats of various types and nine next-generation patrol boats for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). A single border agency (SBA) will be established, and MYR 20 million (USD 4.2 million) has been allocated for the maintenance, repair, and acquisition of capital assets at international entry points nationwide.
(Sources: The Star; The Malaysian Reserve)
