CIMIC Carnival Strengthens Armed Forces-Civilian Ties

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 (Bernama) -- The 2024 Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Carnival in Kota Kinabalu aims to strengthen ties between the armed forces and the public while promoting patriotism in defending national sovereignty.

In its statement, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) said that CIMIC 2024 educates the public on the roles and responsibilities of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).

Held at the Al-Biruni Observatory in Putatan today, CIMIC was officiated by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and also attended by Mindef secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, Army Chief Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, as well as senior MAF officers and personnel.

“It is a joint effort by the Mindef and MAF, involving multiple security and civilian agencies, including the Sabah state government,” read the statement. 

Food boxes were distributed to 1,000 residents in Putatan and prizes were awarded for the Muhibbah Run, which saw over 500 participants comprised of MAF personnel and the public. 

Founded on civil-military cooperation, the carnival featured demonstrations of the armed forces and security agency capabilities, such as Unarmed Combat, Drumline, War Dance performances, and brass band performances by MAF and the Royal Malaysia Police. 

The event included an exhibition of MAF assets, showcasing armoured vehicles like the AV8 Gempita and HMAV Lipan Bara, the EC 725 helicopter, and artillery such as the 105 mm Howitzer and Pack Howitzer.

“There was a display of special assets from the Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy, and Royal Malaysian Air Force. 

“The 2024 CIMIC Carnival also offered local communities insight into careers within MAF and other government security agencies,” the statement added.

The carnival highlighted the discipline and dedication of MAF personnel and security agencies in preserving peace while promoting unity between military personnel and the public.

-- BERNAMA