PETALING JAYA: A concerning trend is emerging in Malaysia – retired military officers, including high-ranking generals, are increasingly transitioning into roles as agents and salesmen for arms dealers. A prominent defence analyst is now calling on the government to take decisive action and outlaw this practice, citing potential national security risks and ethical concerns.

Speaking to The Star, defence analyst Lam Peng Soon highlighted the growing number of ex-military personnel leveraging their expertise and contacts to represent arms manufacturers. This shift, he argues, presents a significant conflict of interest and could compromise the integrity of Malaysia’s defence procurement processes.

“It’s a worrying development,” Lam stated. “These officers possess intimate knowledge of the military’s needs and vulnerabilities. Their involvement in arms sales can potentially influence procurement decisions, leading to biased selections and inflated costs. Furthermore, it raises questions about loyalty and whether these individuals are prioritizing national interests or personal gain.”

The Risks of a Blurred Line

The crux of the issue lies in the blurred line between national service and private enterprise. While veterans deserve opportunities after their military careers, the nature of arms dealing demands a higher level of scrutiny. The potential for undue influence, corruption, and the erosion of public trust is simply too great to ignore.

Lam emphasized that the practice isn't necessarily illegal but is ethically questionable and poses a threat to national security. He pointed out that other countries, such as Singapore and Australia, have implemented stricter regulations to prevent former military personnel from engaging in arms sales.

Call for Legislation

The analyst’s call for legislation is gaining traction among security experts. The proposed law would prohibit retired officers from working as agents or salesmen for arms dealers for a specified period after their retirement, potentially extending to a lifetime ban for those holding particularly sensitive positions.

“The government needs to act swiftly to address this issue,” Lam urged. “A clear legal framework is essential to safeguard national security and maintain the integrity of our defence sector. It’s about protecting the interests of the nation, not hindering the livelihood of former servicemen.”

Public Concerns and Future Implications

The revelations have sparked public concern about the transparency and accountability of defence procurement. Critics argue that the current situation creates opportunities for corruption and undermines the credibility of the armed forces.

The Ministry of Defence has yet to issue an official response, but the debate is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. The government faces a critical decision: whether to embrace stricter regulations or allow the current practice to continue, potentially at the expense of national security and public trust. The future of Malaysia's defence procurement process may well depend on it.