PORT DICKSON, 28 JAN – Army Chief Major General Tan Sri Datuk Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan stressed that the number of non-Bumiputeras joining the armed forces remains low.
According to him, current figures show that non-Bumiputera soldiers are still less than 3 per cent. This trend continues despite various efforts, he added.
The army chief added that more studies have been carried out to ascertain the cause of the situation.
“Generally, I can say there is less incentive from parents because the military has a much lower financial pull,
“This means less pay gains compared to the private sector,” he said during a press conference at the Army Basic Training Centre (PUSASDA), yesterday.
At the same time, Muhammad disclosed that they would continue their efforts in collaboration with educational institutions to attract youths from different ethnic groups to join the armed forces more.
Yesterday, the Army Chief officiated Perbarisan Tamat Latihan Perajurit Muda Lelaki Siri 198/23 parade at the PUSASDA. In this series, a total of 1,436 Perajurit Muda successfully completed the 6-month training period.
In a statement, the Army said 1,009 young fighters from the Malay community had successfully completed the series of training. Meanwhile, 5 people from the Chinese community and 19 people from the Indian community have managed to take up the challenge to join the force.
“The Malaysian Army welcomes young recruits irrespective of race, religion and education to contribute to the military service,
“The main selection criteria are excellent physical and mental fitness. Furthermore, there is a need for them to pass the Malaysia Certificate of Education (SPM) in the major courses for credits,” the statement explained. – airtimes.my
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