Malaysia says not involved in Saudi ‘anti-terror coalition’

Malaysia’s Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein says his country is not involved in a military “coalition” announced by Saudi Arabia with the purpose of “fighting terrorism” in the region.

According to Press TV, the Malaysian minister made the remarks on Tuesday while commenting on a report by Saudi Arabia’s state news agency, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), that said Malaysian forces participated in a military drill led by and held inside Saudi Arabia.

“I have stated from the beginning that we are not involved militarily,” he said, addressing speculation that the Malaysian forces may — in addition to participation in the drill — also be involved in the “coalition.”

“Military training does not mean we are directly involved in operations. Besides, I will not allow it... as to what was reported today (by SPA), I have not seen the extent of involvement in the training,” the Malaysian defense minister said.

Hussein also said that the Defense Ministry would be seeking clarification from the Malaysian armed forces about the level of involvement in the military drill, which is dubbed “Thunder of the North.”

He said Malaysia supported a fight against terrorism in doctrine, but not militarily.

ME