Anwar: LCS project progress shows govt's commitment

Sharing a light moment: Anwar interacting with members of the Royal Malaysian Navy during his visit of the shipyard in Lumut. — Bernama
LUMUT: The progress of the construction of the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) demonstrates the government's strong commitment towards prioritising national security assets, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said it also reflects the importance of good governance so that projects and commitments be delivered without delay.
'We regard the Royal Malaysian Navy as a key line of defence, as our waters are not immune to threats such as terrorism, potential foreign incursions and smuggling.
'That is why I agreed for the LCS project to continue under the Finance Ministry,' he said in his speech at a Kenduri Rakyat programme, Bernama reported.
The Prime Minister attributed previous delays involving the project to weak management, governance issues and corruption.
'If the management is poor, how can we ensure maritime security? That is why good governance is essential,' he said.
Anwar said the government remains focused on the need to enhance the country's defence assets, with the Defence Ministry being among the ministries receiving the largest allocations in the annual budget.
'Defence ranks third, after education and health. For 2025 alone, RM21.2bil has been allocated, a significant amount for a developing nation,' he said, adding that the move was aimed at ensuring national stability, which is crucial for economic growth.
Earlier, Anwar visited the Lumut Naval Shipyard (Lunas) facility to inspect the ongoing LCS construction works and was briefed on the progress of the construction of five LCS units.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress of LCS construction, describing it as commendable.
The LCS is a class of stealth frigates being built by the Royal Malaysian Navy.
At another event, the Prime Minister condemned the lack of response from the international community, especially from Muslim-majority countries, over Israeli attacks on Iran.
He lamented the silence of the many wealthy Islamic countries, despite the Muslim population exceeding one billion.
'Islamic countries are rich, but they are not strong. When it comes to defending Iran, not many dare to speak up,' he said.
Referring to Israel's attacks on Iran's nuclear and military structure on Friday, Anwar said: 'What sort of country behaves in such a barbaric, treacherous, and insane manner?'
When Iran retaliated to defend its dignity, European nations were quick with their condemnation, he pointed out.
Anwar said Malaysia is committed to defending the rights of oppressed nations, including Iran, and praised the country's resilience in the face of long-standing economic sanctions.
He reaffirmed that Malaysia would stay true to its principle of defending justice on the international stage.

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