Over 6,000 soldiers deployed to protect country’s borders — Mohd Johari
KUALA LUMPUR: More than 6,000 soldiers have been deployed across all state borders to ensure the safety of the country from external threats, said Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Johari Baharum.
He said with the large number of personnel, the army can continue to monitor more effectively, and work with international agencies to tackle any untoward incidents.
He was asked to comment on the level of preparation by the military in charge of border security following the bombings in southern Thailand recently.
Mohd Johari added that while the responsibility for security in the country often rested on the shoulders of the police, the Armed Forces were always prepared to face any eventuality.
“However, in terms of militant threats, we often exchange information with the police. We (ATM) play a role in defending the country from the threat of external elements,” he said after officiating the National Convention of Veteran ATM Entrepreneurs 2016, themed ‘ Empowering Veteran ATM Entrepreneurs’ here, yesterday.
Commenting on the event, Mohd Johari said to date, 5,365 new entrepreneurs among ATM veterans had been created through the socio- economic development programme for ATM veterans without pension, organised by the Armed Forces ExServicemen Affairs Corporation ( Perhebat).
Meanwhile, 1,342 ATM veteran entrepreneurs have done well in their businesses, including in the food manufacturing industry.
“The products have also been exported to overseas markets and through such initiatives they are able to generate higher income, and it helps to improve the lives of veterans who have served the country,” he said. — Bernama