KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) must be prepared to face increasing regional and global security threats, says its chief Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang.

       He said this could be achieved by mastering the 4M principles of Man, Machine, Method and Mates.

       Affendi said these four aspects were important to strengthen the level of awareness, competence and togetherness in any team.

       "It will enable MAF personnel to be mobilised more effectively and more efficiently for various tasks at any time in facing any future threats.

       "As MAF is the main bastion of national defence, these aspects are necessary to prepare for challenges and threats, especially uncertain regional and global security situations as well as the rise of non-traditional threats," he said in a special message in conjunction with MAF's 88th anniversary on Thursday (Sept 16).

       Affendi said such non-traditional threats could arise by elements that manipulated Industrial Revolution 4.0 as well as the latest technological developments to become a medium of attack.

       On another matter, he said the Defence Ministry and MAF were looking at holistic and balanced solutions to provide long-term benefits to sustaining quality of life of its veterans.

       "Although the MAF Veterans Affairs Department is responsible for monitoring and safeguarding their welfare, the efforts and incentives given are not permanent.

       "It depends a lot on the allocation channelled by the government as well as contributions and donations by companies and individuals," he said.

       Affendi also expressed concern that military personnel would fall into the low income household group or the B40 after retirement.

       MAF Day celebrations will be held at Segenting Camp, Port Dickson, on Sept 22. – Bernama