GE15: Armed Forces personnel not allowed to participate in campaigns, says Army chief

GE15: Armed Forces personnel not allowed to participate in campaigns, says Army chief

PORT DICKSON: Armed Forces personnel have been reminded not to get directly involved in the 15th General Election (GE15) campaign.

Army Chief General Tan Sri Zamrose Mohd Zain said direct involvement, including participating in campaigning, was a violation of the rules set for Armed Forces personnel.

“It is hoped that our personnel will not be seen holding up party banners with other supporters, shouting here and there, that is not the right way and we do not allow it.

“Nevertheless, we are not stopping them from voting for the political party or attending ceramah (political talks), he said,” he said, adding he hoped they would fulfil their duty on polling day.

He was speaking to reporters after a state-level ceremony to confer the Pingat Jasa Malaysia award to 472 ex-servicemen at Segenting Camp here on Sunday (Nov 6).

The Election Commission has set polling day on Nov 19 and early voting on Nov 15.

Meanwhile, Zamrose said the Armed Forces would provide more transition training for veterans under the Ex-Servicemen Affairs Corporation (Perhebat) that is in line with the times and the country’s workforce needs, adding that the existing training was insufficient and needed effective improvements.

“Perhebat offers long-term courses of between six to 18 months in mechanical engineering, interior design, automotive, hospitality, entrepreneurship, and management studies for those about to retire.

“However, we found that many former participants are not working in the field that they were trained in. We will analyse this issue and will work to improve the existing courses and add other courses as well,” he added. – Bernama