KUCHING – The Malaysian army will form an internal investigation committee to look into an incident involving a senior officer allegedly abusing his authority by slapping and kicking an army personnel recently.
In a statement today, the army said the incident has gone viral on social media after a police report was lodged by the personnel on March 3.
“In the post, the victim claimed that he was slapped on the left side of his face and kicked in the abdominal area by the senior officer who is based in Sarawak,” it said, adding that the incident may have happened during a training exercise.
As a result of the assault, the personnel claimed to have sustained blunt trauma injury to the soft tissues above the eye.
The internal investigation committee will be tasked to identify the causes of the incident for a professional and detailed assessment of the allegations.
“If proven that there is misconduct and abuse of power as alleged, the army will take the appropriate action in accordance with the regulations and directives of the army.”
Currently, the senior officer has been relieved of administrative duties while the investigation is ongoing.
In the statement, army chief Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan expressed serious concern on the allegation, and is committed to make concerted efforts to ascertain the underlying causes of the incident. – March 7, 2024