KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 -- The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) has expressed its "highest gratitude" to the Regent of Johor (TMJ), Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, for his public backing of military exercises and his commitment to the welfare of veterans.

In a statement today, MAF said the regent's support reflects a "strong strategic synergy" between the royal institution, the Johor state government, and the military.

The force described Johor's willingness to provide space and cooperation for military drills as the "lifeblood" of its continued operational readiness.

Yesterday, Tunku Ismail had chided critics for attempting to use military institutions for "personal interests" or to generate "social media attention."

Addressing the necessity o...