Armed Forces Council losing its powers?

AMPANG: The National Association of Patriots (PPK) has alleged that the constitutional role of the Malaysian Armed Forces Council (MAT) is in danger of being usurped by another authority.

PPK president Mohd Arshad Raji said the authority, which he declined to name, appeared to have taken over “many matters” that should be handled by MAT.

“This has had an adverse impact on those in the service and it will also affect them when they retire,” he told FMT after taking part in a discussion of the issue at the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council auditorium.

MAT, a body established under Article 137 of the Federal Constitution, is responsible for the command, discipline and administration of Malaysia’s armed forces.

“As far as we are concerned,” Arshad said, “MAT’s powers include the enactment of policies regarding personnel’s pension, pay, allowances and terms of service.

“But this particular authority that has taken over its role seems to be neglecting the terms of service which should be enjoyed by all the armed services.”

He said he was concerned that the authority would eventually take over full control of administration and discipline in the Armed Forces.

Lumut MP Mohamad Imran Abd Hamid, who was at the discussion, said he had brought up the matter in Parliament and noted that no action had been taken to correct the situation. -FMT