DEFENCE Minister Mohamad Hasan has called on more non-Bumiputeras to join the Malaysian Armed Forces, especially the army.

He said despite various efforts to encourage enlistment from members of the group, the number of non-Bumiputeras remained low at around 3%.

Mohamad said support and encouragement from parents and civil society groups could draw more non-Bumiputeras to pursue military careers.

“Despite various efforts, including roadshows and promotions, we have not achieved a satisfactory level of non-Bumiputera participation.

“I urge more non-Bumiputera youth to come forward and consider careers as members of the armed forces. The remuneration and military service benefits are improving. We aim for more than 10% participation from non-Bumiputeras.”

He said this at a press conference after the passing-out parade of series 197/23 male soldiers and series 48/23 female soldiers at the Army Basic Training Centre (Pusasda) in Port Dickson today.

Army chief Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan was present at the parade, which featured 1,013 recruits comprising 661 men and 352 women.

Mohamad said this batch’s intake received encouraging response from diploma holders even though the minimum qualification to enlist is Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia.

“Many view a career in the military as a good one and understand it opens doors to further their education and build a better future,” he said.

He also said his ministry was mulling continuing the Pemberian Khas Kepada Pesara aid to military veterans, adding that the matter will be discussed in the cabinet.

Earlier media reports said the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association asked the government to consider continuing the special aid in Budget 2024, which would be tabled in parliament on October 13. – Bernama, September 23, 2023.