RMN's role appreciated, especially in Sabah: Hishammuddin Hussein

SEPANGGAR: The role of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in guarding the country's security and sovereignty is much appreciated, especially in Sabah, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.
He said the government was committed to ensuring the wellbeing of RMN staff and families in appreciation of their sacrifices, including being away from their families for long periods of time to guard the country's waters from foreign intrusion.
"In view of the commitment and determination of our personnel, particularly at the Kota Kinabalu RMN (PTKK) base in Sepanggar, the partnership between Mindef (Defence Ministry) and the industry as well as the leadership at the parliamentary and state assembly levels must be seamless.
"This means that their ties should not be questioned and are not for sale because our agenda is to ensure the safety and defence of Sabah, its people, and to ensure that our preparedness in Sabah is at the desired level," he told reporters after attending a gathering with RMN staff here.
Hishammuddin said the government will continue to ensure its agenda for RMN staff such as their welfare, health, training, education, housing and cost of living, is carried out smoothly.
He said hopefully, the government's efforts are appreciated by the RMN staff while their sacrifices in protecting the nation are also recognised.
At the event, Hishammuddin said he and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan are working to allocate at least RM5 million for the housing areas at the base.
He also said Abdul Rahman had contributed RM10,000 to the PTKK's Armed Forces Family Welfare Body (Bakat).
Earlier, Hishammuddin officiated the Petronas kiosk, which began operating last month at the base to make it easier for PTKK personnel to refuel their vehicles.
Hishammuddin also visited the reconstruction project of a 52.7-m bridge costing RM13.5 million at Kampung Gentisan here, which is connected to PTKK. — Bernama