Malaysia's King warns against purchase of aged military assets

Malaysia's King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, has issued a stern reminder to the Defence Ministry not to repeat past mistakes in the procurement of military assets, particularly used aircraft that could endanger the lives of pilots and military personnel.

- 

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia's King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, has issued a stern reminder to the Defence Ministry not to repeat past mistakes in the procurement of military assets, particularly used aircraft that could endanger the lives of pilots and military personnel.

Sultan Ibrahim said Malaysia's experience in purchasing second-hand Skyhawk aircraft should serve as a lesson, as the planes could not be fully used.

"Do not repeat the past mistake like when we bought second-hand Skyhawks... Are we going to put our pilots in 'flying coffins'? Think for yourselves," he said.

"I believe all this happens because the Defence Ministry is full of agents or ex-generals turned salesmen, and even textile traders trying to sell drones," said Sultan Ibrahim at the 60th anniversary parade of Rejimen Gerak Khas (RGK) at Kem Iskandar on Aug 16.