In a statement, the defence ministry denied claims that the dismissal or transfer of armed forces chiefs – including army, naval and air force commanders – was tied to the contract.

“There is no connection between the alleged changes in leadership and the helicopter leasing process,” it said.

The ministry advised the public not to be easily influenced by false information on social media, as it could create a negative perception of national defence and jeopardise security.

“Spreading false information is a criminal offence under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, which could result in legal action.

“The dissemination of such baseless claims is not only misleading but can also undermine public confidence in national defence institutions,” it said.

In December, Weststar Aviation Sdn Bhd, a company owned by multimillionaire Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim, signed a 15-year lease agreement with the government to supply Leonardo helicopters to the armed forces, police, firefighters and maritime enforcement, as well as the Prime Minister’s Department.

In November, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told the Dewan Rakyat that the leasing arrangement helped alleviate the burden of maintenance, which had become a significant issue with billions spent annually on upkeep, materials and natural wear and tear.

“Therefore, I agreed to continue with the leasing decision previously made, but we are expanding its scope,” he had said, adding that countries such as Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines also practised the leasing model.