Government to build new army camp in Hutan Melintang, Perak

A new army camp is to be built on a 142-hectare site in Hutan Melintang, Bagan Datoh, Perak which is expected to be operational early next year. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the setting up of the new camp which could accommodate 1,000 personnel, was in line with government efforts in combatting the Daish threats and to secure the national waters. He said the camp would house the Standard Infantry Batallion and the Royal Artillery Regiment involving personnel from the 23rd Royal Malay Regiment (RMR) and the Royal Artillery Regiment which would be identified by the Army. "The 23rd RMR in Ipoh will be moved to the new camp for the sake of better defence and security," he told reporters after officiating the Sembrong UMNO division delegates conference, here, Saturday, which was also attended by the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also UMNO vice-president. Hishammuddin said the camp, equipped with facilities and houses for the Army personnel, was mooted by Ahmad Zahid, when he was still holding the Defence Ministry portfolio.

"Despite the current uncertain economic situation, we announced the construction of the camp to give confidence to the people, that no matter what the economic situation is, there is no compromise when it comes to security issues," he said.

Meanwhile, Hishammuddin who is also UMNO Vice-President, said Ahmad Zahid's concern on the political development in Johor was timely, although he said the issues faced by the party currently had not at all affected Johor UMNO, as they put party's interest over everything.

Although he described the condition of UMNO in Johor as under control, the Sembrong UMNO division chief and Sembrong member of Parliament reminded its members to get out from their comfort zone, and execute detailed plans to gain public support.