People's security council to address weak NSC

Former army chief Hashim Hussein has been appointed by Pakatan Rakyat to head its newly formed People’s Security Advisory Council (MPKR) aimed at overcoming what it said was the failure of National Security Council as shown in the recent intrusion in Sabah.

Hashim said the council would advise the coalition on tactical moves in resolving national security issues and contribute in terms of charting national defence policies and strategies.

Hashim (right) blasted the NSC for being passive over the country's defence, adding that it had lost its focus in maintaining security and defending Malaysia's sovereignty.

Intelligence failure has been cited as one of the main reasons for the invasion of a village in Lahad Datu by armed men loyal to a self-styled sultan from southern Philippines.

The invasion soon led to an all-out battle between Malaysian security forces and the gunmen, leading to scores dead, including 10 on Malaysian side.

PAS vice president Mahfuz Omar meanwhile said the setting up of MPKR demonstrates that PR was more serious in national security matters.

“MPKR will be more efficient and all the security forces will be coordinated by this council, and if there is incidents like Sabah, we can be more prepared,” said the Pokok Sena member of parliament.