Kuala lumpur: Almost 70 per cent of the 5,000 veterans of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) who retire each year choose to venture into entrepreneurship, said Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari. He noted the ministry’s commitment to supporting veterans in securing second careers through various entrepreneurial schemes and programmes.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Defence Ministry has implemented a specific programme for veteran entrepreneurs, known as the Malaysian Armed Forces Veteran Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme (PUVET ATM). This initiative is carried out in collaboration with Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) and provides a grant of almost RM1 million annually.

During a ‘Peduli Veteran MADANI’ programme event in Kampung Pangsenam, Adly handed over fish food and patin and tilapia fry to ATM veterans Norizan Johari and Mohd Zaid Kamarul Ismail, who have transitioned into cage fish farming entrepreneurship.

Beyond entrepreneurship, the ministry offers transition training through the Ex-Servicemen Affairs Corporation (Perhebat), which equips retiring personnel with skills in fields such as agriculture, automotive, and other industries. The training duration ranges from six to 18 months, depending on the chosen field of expertise, preparing veterans for a second career in various sectors.

Adly emphasized the ministry’s ongoing support for veterans, ensuring assistance in economic, welfare, and health matters throughout their lives.