Defence Literacy Programme A New Component Under PJM - Defence Minister

MUAR, May 17 (Bernama) — The Defence Literacy Programme will be introduced as a new component under the Ministry of Defence's Jiwa Murni Programme (PJM) this year, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

He said the programme, run by the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MiDAS), aims to educate the public on geopolitics as part of the Comprehensive Defence (Hanruh) strategy.

"It will help Malaysians understand the geopolitical landscape, threats in the South China Sea, and how our defence preparedness compares with neighbouring countries," he told reporters.

He spoke after launching the 2026 Kementah MADANI Jiwa Murni Programme at Dewan Semai Bakti, Felda Maokil, Labis. Also present was the deputy chief of Army, Lt Gen Datuk Mohamad Suria Mohamad Saad.

During the event, Mohamed Khaled presented a cheque for RM6 million for the 2025 Kementah MADANI PJM implementation.

The cheque was presented to the chief engineer of the Royal Engineer Regiment, Brig Gen Sharuddin Mohd Noh.

He also presented an RM500,000 cheque to Maj Gen Datuk Mohd Rashidi Bujai, Islamic Spiritual Division of the Malaysian Armed Forces director general, for the Ilmu dan Muafakat Programme (PIKAT).

Mohamed Khaled added that the RM6 million allocation is meant for 57 PJM projects nationwide: 28 (Melaka), 17 (Johor), four (Kedah), three (Perak), two (Kelantan) and one each in Negeri Sembilan, Sarawak and Terengganu.

This year's PJM projects focus on upgrading mosques, prayer halls, community halls, schools, sports facilities, cemeteries and infrastructure.

— BERNAMA