Amman:The Ministry of Defence has outlined five key focus areas to ensure the RM22.11 billion allocated under Budget 2027 is managed transparently, prudently, and effectively.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the allocation for 2027 is approximately 1.66 percent higher than in 2026, with RM14.52 billion dedicated to operating expenditure and RM7.59 billion to development expenditure. The five focus areas include enhancing defence readiness and capabilities, improving the well-being of military personnel and their families, supporting the welfare of Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans, fostering human capital development and patriotism, and strengthening the research and defence industry ecosystem.

To bolster national defence capabilities, RM5.35 billion has been allocated for equipment development across all branches of the MAF. In addition, RM133.45 million has been designated for operations in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE). For military personnel and their families, RM957.30 million will fund MAF housing, RM30 million is set aside for furniture replacement in Armed Forces Family Housing (RKAT) units, and the 'Head To Toe' programme's allocation has been increased to RM280 million.

In terms of veterans' welfare, RM304 million has been designated for the operations of the MAF Veterans Affairs Department (JHEV ATM), with the minimum monthly pension for eligible veterans raised from RM1,000 to RM1,350. Mindef is also focusing on human capital development by offering skills training for personnel nearing the end of their service, in partnership with institutions such as the Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology and the Malaysian Maritime Academy, to prepare them for a second career.

The National Service Training Programme (PLKN) has been allocated RM279.85 million for operating and development expenditure to promote discipline, national identity, and patriotism. Furthermore, RM65.03 million has been allocated for defence research and development, while RM30 million is earmarked for organizing the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2027 (LIMA 2027).

Mindef emphasized its commitment to maintaining defence readiness and safeguarding national sovereignty while continuing to prioritize the welfare of MAF personnel, their families, and veterans.