Army denies defying court ruling over ex-soldier's sacking

The army has denied claims that it defied a court ruling over the dismissal of a former serviceman, Vegeneswaran.

In a statement, the army said the appellate court in 2023 only set aside Vegeneswaran's dismissal on procedural grounds.

"The Court of Appeal did not overturn his conviction in a disciplinary proceeding against the former serviceman, who tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine," it said.

The army subsequently ended Vegeneswaran's service after he completed 18 years of full-time service, in accordance with Armed Forces regulations.

It added that all outstanding salaries, allowances and benefits owed to Vegeneswaran had been paid and accepted without objection at the time.

The army was responding to a TikTok video in which Vegeneswaran reportedly made the claims against the army, the Malaysian Armed Forces and the government.

It also rejected Vegeneswaran's claim that having a MyTentera card proved he was still in active service, stating that a person's military status was determined by law and official service records, not an identity card.

"The MyTentera card remains in his possession because he has yet to complete the documentation process relating to his discharge," the statement said.

The army warned that former personnel who used a MyTentera card or military uniform to portray themselves as serving members could be investigated and face legal action under the Penal Code.