KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 ― The Defence Ministry must look into securing Malaysia’s territorial waters in addition to forming a high-level committee to probe alleged scandals within the armed forces, the National Patriot Association (Patriot) said today.

The group comprising former military and police personnel lauded the ministry for its initiative, but said a more pressing threat existed in the forms of maritime piracy, illegal encroachment, and the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group.

"As such, our naval hardware to meet the need of maritime patrolling, counter piracy and kidnap for ransom, and equipment for cyber warfare, demand priority,” Patriot president Mohamed Arshad said in a statement.

To avoid another incident like the Sulu invasion of Lahad Datu, Sabah in 2013, Mohamed suggested that the necessary assets and manpower from the peninsula be permanently stationed in Sabah.

"Security forces stationed in Sabah need to be supported with the required supporting arms, and not wait for deployment from West Malaysia after an incident has happened,” he said.

Defence Minister Mohamad Sabu said yesterday he will seek the Cabinet’s approval to form a high level committee to probe the various allegations of impropriety, from the controversial purchase of the Scorpene submarines to equipment malfunction and corruption among its rank and file.