Tanjong Malim MP Chang Lih Kang recalled that Hishammuddin had not sought the Cabinet’s approval for Ops Yemen 2 in 2015 when he was helming the ministry where Malaysian troops were involved in logistical operations carrying ammunition, spare parts and explosives for the Arab Alliance.

“In short, the Malaysian troops were involved in ‘combatant activities’ without the mandate from the United Nations and knowledge of the Cabinet,” he said in a statement.

“This is a matter that should be seriously looked into, as the reckless decision had risked our soldiers’ lives.”

Chang, who was formerly part of the parliamentary special select committee on defence and home affairs, called for an investigation into Ops Yemen 2 and for action to be taken against those responsible.

“Meanwhile, he should be dropped from helming the defence ministry and stay away from defence matters, unless and until he proves his innocence in the controversial Ops Yemen 2.”

Hishammuddin had defended his action, saying it was approved by the National Security Council then.

Chang also expressed “grave disappointment” over the new Cabinet line-up and the lack of downsizing. Worse still was that ministers with “awful track records” were being appointed to the same positions they held previously, he said.

He said examples of these were Azmin Ali, Rina Harun and Radzi Jidin, who failed in managing their respective ministries during the pandemic and received criticism throughout their tenure.