Tighter Control Systems For Armed Forces

KLANG, Dec 20 (Bernama) -- The inventory systems for the three branches of the Malaysian Armed Forces must always be monitored and updated according to current needs to prevent a recurrence of the loss of the F-5E interceptor aircraft engine.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the systems used by the armed forces had been completely revamped since the disappearance of the engine was realised, and the monitoring aspects with regard to the procedures, inventory and control of the movement of every asset had been tightened.
"The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) particularly must review and improve the asset inventory control system to regain public confidence in the system adopted besides ensuring that a breach will not recur," he told reporters after visiting the NGV Tech shipyard at Kampung Sinjangkang, Teluk Panglima Garang, here Sunday.
He said the disappearance of the engine in 2007 was a complicated and difficult case as it involved an international syndicate which had used RMAF officers and personnel to achieve its objective.
Ahmad Zahid said the ministry was continuing its investigation and thus he could not give detailed information on the case as it involved legal aspects.
"We hope legal action can be speeded up. So far, it is learned that police investigation has been completed and they are waiting for instruction from the Attorney-General's Chambers for further action," the minister said.
He said action had been taken against several senior officers as well as junior personnel but he declined to disclose the type of action taken.
Ahmad Zahid said there was a strong demand for components and spare parts for the first generation supersonic fighter aircraft especially among countries which were still using the aircraft.
"The engine is an old asset where the engine manufacturer no longer produces it although there are still some countries using the aircraft. Thus there is still a market for the engine," he said.
Jet engine sold to South America Firm

tunku : this is indeed a disaster condition of our armed forces when the international syndicate can easily uses our army personnel for their interest. a thorough investigation needed fast.though the minister had said that the incident will not recur, there are still many aspects and chances for other incident which can appear in the armed forces. we want to know who is behind it asap and these people should be charged as the nation traitor,not just stealing.a disciplinary action alone is not enough for these traitors.