KUALA LUMPUR: Despite concerns among activists, the Malaysia government says that it plans to make use of an American military base in Thailand. The country's Defense Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi told reporters on Tuesday that the American U-Tapao airbase in Rayong is not interference in the Asia region. “We respect the agreement made between both countries. The US has the right to bilateral relations with any country they regard as a friend or ally. I don't see the US as interfering in Asean,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby. He added when asked to comment on US proposals to use the airbase for climate-research as well as a center for humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief training. Last Wednesday, Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said the country's government will appoint a committee to conduct studies on the proposal. Meanwhile, the defense minister said the government has approved RM11.2 milion to implement National Service Volunteers Brigade (BSKN) program. He said the fund was a special incentive for eligible BSKN members based on their hours of service in any program conducted. “The yearly incentive is given to boost the spirit of volunteers to continue giving social services to the community,” he added. Activists, however, told Bikyamasr.com that they were unhappy with the decision by the government. “We don't mind cooperation with the US on many issues, but the military aspect is very concerning to many of us, because we know the tension that can arise from participating in projects with the American army,” said one activist.
