Mindanao monitoring team all set to serve

KUALA LUMPUR: The 14th Mindanao International Monitoring Team (IMT-M14) will be taking over the task of monitoring and overseeing the ceasefire process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Malaysian Armed Forces chief Jen Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin said IMT-M14 led by Mejar-Jen Datuk Ya’cob Samiran would replace IMT-M13, which ends its duties on March 14.

“Congratulations to all officers and personnel selected to join IMTM14 and it is hoped they can carry out their duties in the best possible manner. Malaysia’s excellence in leading this mission showcases our credibility among the international community,” he said at the launch ceremony of IMT-M14 at Wisma Transit here yesterday.

His speech text was read by Army chief Jen Datuk Seri Ahmad Hasbullah Mohd Nawawi.

A total of 16 members make up the IMT-M14 team, mainly 11 personnel from MAF, two from the police and one civil servant each from the Defence Ministry, the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Department.

Meanwhile, Jen Zulkifli said officers and members in IMT-M14 should take care of their safety at all times during the mission.

“The situation in Mindanao is difficult to predict, so stay away from risky situations,” he said.

A total of 13 teams have been deployed to Mindanao since Oct 10, 2004, to help create a more conducive environment for the peace process between the two parties.