KUALA LUMPUR: The constant emergence of new threats makes it imperative for adequate funds to be allocated for Armed Forces, says Jen Tan Sri Affendi Buang.

       The Armed Forces chief said even when the pandemic subsides, they would require enough funding in order to protect the country from any and all threats.

       Speaking during a special interview with the media in conjunction with the 88th Armed Forces Day on Sept 16, Jen Affendi said he could understand if there were delays for new procurements but operational expenditure should either be maintained or increased.

       "For operational expenditure, which allows us to operate day to day, I feel it is important to maintain it. With or without the pandemic, threats are always there and I hope the government can give us priority in this," he said.

       Jen Affendi said if Malaysia was not equipped to face threats to the security of the nation, it would destabilise the country.

       "In our operations we need oil to work our vehicles; maintenance works must also be performed. All these require dollars and cents," he said.

       On veteran welfare, the Armed Forces chief said that a number of them face uncertainty after their service.

       "There are no second career opportunities out there. For veterans to have a life equal to other citizens, they need a new income stream after retirement and for that to happen opportunities must be there.

       "We are still finding ways to best address it but any approach must be holistic. For us, we have to prepare them through the mental attitude so that when they quit the Armed Forces they are ready to face this next phase of life," he said.

       One of the main challenges faced by veterans seeking a new career path is their age, with the average retirement age being around 40, he added.

       "Those in their forties will understand. Monetary commitments are high at that age, with kids still in school and houses and car loans still being paid.

       "If you don't have a steady income, how are you going to live? "Then this will automatically put you in the B40 category.

       "After sacrificing their blood and sweat for the country, we discard them when they reach retirement age. We have to do something," he said.