Nation’s security reinforced in 2016 Budget

KUALA LUMPUR: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the nation's security, the army's preparedness and welfare of security personnel have not been compromised in the 2016 Budget.

“I assure that issues that are close to my heart especially housing, the National Service (NS) training programme and assets (acquisition) that we have committed to under the 10th Malaysia Plan have not been affected.

"This is despite the fact that our economy is facing challenges and had experienced impacts due to the (current) global environment. “For the ministry, I wish to assure that our core business... our main focus will not be affected.

" Allocations for the Defence Ministry included 2,000 affordable housing units to be built by the Armed Forces Fund Board; RM360million for the NS training programme, RM160 million for 4,000 Armed Forces quarters; as well as RM523 million for the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM).

(File pix) Allocations for the Defence Ministry in 2016 Budget include 2,000 affordable housing units to be built by the Armed Forces Fund Board; RM360million for the NS training programme, RM160 million for 4,000 Armed Forces quarters; as well as RM523 million for the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM). Pix by Rasul Azli Samad