Johor Bahru: Malaysia is closely monitoring the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, expressing hopes that the United Nations (UN) can intervene to manage the situation in South Asia. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin emphasized Malaysia’s desire for a peaceful resolution between the two nations to prevent the outbreak of war.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Defence Minister Khaled Nordin expressed concerns over the potential consequences of a conflict between Pakistan and India, both considered friendly nations to Malaysia. He stressed the adverse effects a war could have, particularly on the populations of the two countries. These comments were made during the 56th Johor State Annual Representative Conference of the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association.

The tensions have heightened following Pakistan’s recent warning of an imminent military attack by India. This comes in response to a deadly incident on April 22 in Indian-administered Kashmir, where 26 tourists were killed. India accused three individuals, including two Pakistani nationals, of carrying out the attack as part of an armed insurgency, a claim denied by Islamabad, which has called for an independent investigation.

In addition to addressing international concerns, Defence Minister Khaled Nordin spoke on domestic matters, outlining plans to reorganize the associations of armed forces veterans to enhance their effectiveness. He noted that there are currently 122 such associations, some of which are inactive or have small memberships. The reorganization aims to consolidate and amplify the voices and needs of veterans.

Furthermore, at the same event, Mohamed Khaled announced financial allocations for the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association. This includes RM40,000 for upgrades at the PVATM Office in Johor Bahru and RM44,000 for activities at the branch level across Johor.