Ready to face any terror threat at Games
> Dedicated military team can be deployed at moment’s notice, says Hishammuddin
PETALING JAYA: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein ( pix) announced yesterday that a dedicated military team is ready to face any potential threats during the 29th SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
The Anti-Terrorism Readiness Troop consists of 427 army personnel of different ranks, including 32 officers who will be tasked with defusing any possible terrorist situation, he said after witnessing a counter-terrorism demonstration.
The team will be divided and stationed at Kem Sungai Besi, Kem Wardieburn and Kem Kentomen and can be deployed at a moment’s notice.
Armed forces personnel will also be working with police in “Operasi Kawal” to monitor and patrol 38 locations in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Putrajaya throughout the Games, which opens on Aug 19.
The locations include Bukit Bintang, KLCC, Shah Alam Stadium, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport while more than 2,000 military personnel will be involved in the opening and closing ceremonies.
“The army and the police are the frontliners responsible for security. The world is facing new threats and we are looking to the army to ensure the country upholds its sovereignty and pride.”
Hishammuddin said he was impressed by the preparedness of the armed forces and expressed hope the Games would not be marred by any unwanted incidents.
“The cooperation among armed forces personnel is commendable, and this is important, especially when faced with enemies who will stop at nothing to harm us.”