KUCHING, Aug 5 — Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein has given assurance that the security in Sarawak would always be his top priority.

In this regard, he said this would be highlighted during the discussion with the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg tomorrow.

Adding on, Hishammuddin stressed that the territorial sovereignty, security and prosperity of the people would remain a priority of his ministry.

"Sarawak’s safety is one issue that we would never compromise on. I will discuss with the Premier of Sarawak on what is needed to strengthen security and to beef up the defence.

"We want to convince the people of Sarawak in whatever situation they are, that they can rely on the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence (Mindef),” he told a press conference held after declaring open a new polyclinic at Penrissen Camp near here today.

Asked about the military preparedness in Sarawak, Hishammuddin said there were many aspects to look at. In terms of assets, he said he would discuss it with Abang Johari because there were "things that could be announced, and things that could not be announced, especially those related to security preparations”.

In terms of manpower, he said he had been informed about Sarawak having sufficient army personnel available.

"What’s important now is how to boost the morale of the personnel.

"Among the things that can be done is having the existing camps be upgraded, and if it needs be, new camps would have to be built.

"Our clinics too must be well-equipped to receive patients, and the children of the army families need to go to school.

"Issues like these need to be taken into consideration, if we’re to look at the preparedness of the Armed Forces and for a better future of the security in Sarawak,” he added. — Borneo Post