MINDEF Implements WOGOS Strategy On Pulau Banggi - Mohamed Khaled

KUDAT, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- Pulau Banggi has been selected as the location for the implementation of the Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society (WOGOS) strategy by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), as part of efforts to strengthen development and security in rural and remote areas.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said that through this approach, both the government and local communities will be mobilised to ensure that security efforts do not rely solely on the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), but are shared responsibilities among all community members.

“With this awareness, the community will refrain from actions that could compromise security and will help maintain a stable and safe environment,” he said at a press conference after officiating the MAF’s Semarak Bersama Komuniti programme in Pulau Banggi today.

Also present were Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Mohammad Nizam Jaffar, Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, as well as representatives from various security agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

Mohamed Khaled said that the WOGOS approach on Pulau Banggi will involve comprehensive collaboration between ministries and government agencies, with a focus on driving development and improving the well-being of communities on Malaysia’s largest island.

“When the lives of the people are protected and secure, it fosters greater stability and directly strengthens the country’s overall security,” he said.

He added that the presence of the MAF on the island is crucial in enhancing security, especially given its proximity to the border of the Philippines. This, he said, boosts residents’ confidence and helps spur local socio-economic development.

Earlier, more than 500 residents took part in the two-day programme, which began yesterday, featuring various activities involving the MAF and the local community of Pulau Banggi, including gotong-royong and spiritual programmes.

Commenting on the early voting for the 17th Sabah State Election taking place tomorrow, Mohamed Khaled expressed confidence that all military personnel would fulfil their responsibilities as registered voters in accordance with the law and their duties as citizens.

“We are different from some countries where the military does not have the right to vote. In Malaysia, we allow our military personnel to exercise their right to vote,” he said.

“I also believe that security is one of the main factors that enables military personnel to exercise their right to vote,” he said.

A total of 11,697 military personnel and their spouses are eligible to cast their ballots tomorrow as early voters in the Sabah state election.

Pulau Banggi, the largest island in Malaysia, has 9,484 registered voters for the 17th state election.

Polling day for the state polls is set for Nov 29.

For the latest news on the 17th Sabah State Election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/sabah/index.php.

-- BERNAMA