Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) Veterans Affairs Department (JHEV) has allocated RM8 million for the construction of new residential units and repairs of homes of Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans nationwide this year. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari announced that the fund involves building 40 new residential units, costing RM75,000 per house in the peninsula and RM85,000 in Sabah and Sarawak. Additionally, 280 veterans' houses will be repaired at roughly RM17,000 per unit at the ceiling rate.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the overall allocation for JHEV this year stands at RM303.3 million, with RM274.4 million, or 90 percent, earmarked directly for the welfare of the MAF veterans' community. Adly Zahari mentioned that the initial stages of the year are devoted to price quotations, with the aim of commencing construction or repairs by March or April, alongside completing projects from the previous year.
The housing initiative seeks to aid low-income MAF veterans or their widows who currently do not own homes or reside in unsuitable conditions but possess land suitable for residential construction. As of last December, 32 new applications for new builds and 316 for repair works were approved, totaling an allocation of RM7.24 million. This included constructing three new residential units and repairing 33 houses in Negeri Sembilan.
Adly also highlighted the ministry's efforts to increase housing aid allocations, which have risen from RM4.86 million in 2021 to RM7.243 million last year. In terms of governance, the ministry maintains full cooperation with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on any investigations involving the agency's officers and plans to implement various initiatives to enhance integrity within its management system.
Addressing the public perception of the MAF, Adly emphasized that confidence in the country's security personnel remains intact due to their dedication to safeguarding national sovereignty and security. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by these personnel, noting that maintaining integrity is a governmental responsibility, and reiterated the unwavering appreciation for their service and commitment to protecting the nation's peace.