Umno perlu tunjuk akauntabiliti dalam kemelut LCS, kata penganalisis

Umno must demonstrate its commitment to accountability by having former defense ministers explain their decisions and monitor the project, according to analyst Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri. The analyst also urged the party to support independent assessment of the decisions made by the defense ministry, changes in contracts, and corrective measures taken.

Penalties should be imposed for contract breaches, but not for the decisions made by the defense ministry alone. If a contractor is responsible for delays, they should receive appropriate penalties according to the contract. However, if the decision of the defense ministry also contributed to the delay, it is unclear who should be held accountable.

Umno's record in government should also be examined to explain the shortcomings in monitoring and actions taken by the party's ministers when problems arose. The project originally involved the construction of six frigates with a cost of RM9.128 billion, but was later reduced to five frigates with a cost of RM11.227 billion. The first frigate, originally scheduled for delivery in 2019, is now expected to be handed over in April 2027.

Khaled acknowledged delays in meeting some contracts and changes requested by the defense ministry, but said the shipbuilder also missed its schedule. Claim for compensation has been issued to Lumut Naval Shipyard (Lunas), which will be given the opportunity to explain the cause of the delay. If the company's explanation is found to be unsatisfactory, compensation will be imposed.

In his statement on October 19, Lunas cited several supporting contracts controlled directly by the defense ministry and export restrictions on guided missiles by Norway. The company said responsibility for the delay must be determined through the process set out in the contract. Defense analyst Zaki Salleh urged Umno to acknowledge the shortcomings in monitoring in the past and obtain explanations from former defense ministers regarding the basis of the decisions made.

Zaki stressed that the party could demonstrate accountability through several practical steps, such as providing open explanations, supporting independent research, and implementing reforms. Zaki also urged Umno to support investigations by Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the National Audit Office (PAK), without rejecting them as political attacks.

However, he stressed that a fair assessment should also take into account the shortcomings in corporate governance and contract management, in addition to external developments beyond the local political party's control. Defense safety analyst Mizan Aslam of the Global Peace Institute in London also urged Umno to explain how the LCS project could face problems.

Mizan asked why this happened and where the money was being spent. He warned against blaming Umno entirely, but said the party could do more to ensure those responsible are held accountable. He added that such steps could help Umno rebuild public trust.