Malacca: The Malaysian Army must remain united, uphold integrity and cultivate a strong will to win in addressing current and future security challenges, said Army Chief General Datuk Azhan Md Othman. He emphasized the importance of these values in the face of an increasingly uncertain geopolitical and geostrategic landscape, which has resulted in spillover effects from major power rivalries impacting global economic and trade systems, thus posing significant implications for national security.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the rapid advancement of global technology has influenced the nature of modern warfare. General Azhan underscored that the Army cannot afford to lag and must move decisively to confront future warfare concepts that are technology-driven. He delivered these remarks during his First Order of the Day address as the 31st Army Chief at Dataran Parawood, Kem Terendak.
Azhan highlighted that the Army is also facing non-traditional threats, such as cross-border crime, climate change, natural disasters, and hybrid threats, all of which have implications for national sovereignty and interests. He stressed the Army's leadership philosophy of a 'will to win,' which reflects a firm resolve to prevail in all aspects, including operations, training, and decision-making.
He acknowledged the current challenges faced by the Army, noting that it is experiencing a storm that has led to a deficit of public trust. 'Day after day, we are criticised and ridiculed, seemingly without end,' he remarked, outlining two key guiding principles for Army personnel: their identity as members of the Malaysian Army and the warrior ethos and knight's pledge, which include piety, loyalty, sacrifice, discipline, sincerity, and trustworthiness.
General Azhan reiterated the importance of transparency and integrity in duty execution, stating that he would not tolerate corruption or abuse of power. He also emphasized the significance of effective leadership, leadership development, intellectual capacity, technological competence, as well as coordinated and effective training. He urged all Army personnel to reunite and work together to restore the organisation's excellence and honour.
The address was delivered during a combat parade involving 38 officers and 1,356 other ranks from the 10th Brigade (Para), 21st Special Service Group, and three divisions, led by the Commanding Officer of the 18th Royal Malay Regiment (Para), Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Ashafiq Abdul Aziz. The First Order of the Day was also broadcast live via social media platforms, allowing Army personnel nationwide to follow and reflect on its key messages.