Proposal to increase allocation to Perhebat to be studied: Mohamad Sabu

KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry will study the proposal to increase allocation to the Armed Forces Ex-Servicemen Affairs Corporation (Perhebat) which provides transitory training to future military pensioners.
Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said the ministry must look at its financial capabilities first before making a decision on the proposal.
"From time to time, I will look at the issue of increasing (the allocation), I support the (increase in) allowance to Perhebat because it benefits the retired servicemen," he told reporters after the 51st Convocation Ceremony at Kompleks Perhebat in the Sungai Buloh Camp near here today.
Mohamad was commenting on the proposal to increase allocation to Perhebat by its chairman Lt Gen (Rtd) Datuk Seri Abdul Aziz Ibrahim today.
Also present was the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin.
Mohamad also praised the courses offered by Perhebat as they met the demands of the industry.
"The courses offered have high demand, for example, 'chef' (culinary arts) is a good source of income," he said.
Meanwhile, Abdul Aziz said the increase in allocation to Perhebat would help in various aspects such as industrial placement and training of the trainees.
"We really hope the government can increase the allocation for the benefit of future retirees who can undergo courses at Perhebat," he said.
At the event, 713 Armed Forces personnel received certificates of skills after completing courses for between three to 18 months.
Perhebat which was formed in 1994 offers various courses including automotive engineering, tourism and hotel management, as well as food and catering services. — Bernama