Malaysian King: National Defence University must adapt in facing new geo-political realities, modern warfare
The National Defence University of Malaysia has been told to provide new security and defence insights and strategies, as armed conflicts continue to erupt in certain parts of the globe.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, said that in this challenging era, the roles of higher learning institutions demand a new paradigm shift towards excellence.
“The National Defence University of Malaysia, as the premier defence university in this region, is responsible to mould future leaders in defending Malaysia’s national strategic interests,” said Al-Sultan Abdullah in his royal address at the varsity’s 13th convocation ceremony at the World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.
“This university must always hold on to the philosophy and vision of its establishment. As such, this university must face the challenges of present geo-political realities wisely, and always explore, and identify new fields in the security and defence landscapes.”
The Malaysian King added that the university must also provide new ideas and strategies that suit the Southeast Asian nation’s security and defence needs.
“Taking into account the armed conflicts that are happening in many parts of the world at this moment, the National Defence University of Malaysia should be turned into the main hub that will apply the understanding and adherence to international humanitarian laws.
“International humanitarian laws are rules that focus on the human elements in monitoring the effects of armed conflicts and wars.”
The National Defence University of Malaysia, based in Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur, was established on Nov 10, 2006.
Al-Sultan Abdullah added that Malaysia rejected all forms of violence against innocent civilians in armed conflicts, including the targeting and bombing of civilians, hospitals and schools, and cutting off water supply and electricity to the civilian population.
“As a sovereign and independent country, it is our responsibility to reject all forms of violence that contravene international humanitarian norms.
“Leaders, including those in the security and defence sectors, must adhere steadfastly to the principles of universal peace and humanity.
“If we don’t apply such principles from now, disputes in the future will end with armed conflicts that will sideline human rationality,” he added.
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