A New Path for Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans
A groundbreaking initiative is helping Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans transition into the world of entrepreneurship, offering them new opportunities and a fresh start after their service. The first cohort of the Armed Forces Fund Board’s (LTAT) Usahawan Wira (Warrior Entrepreneur) Empowerment Programme 2024/2025 has already begun to see positive results, with many participants crediting the programme for opening up a world of possibilities.
One of the notable graduates is Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Mohd Nor Asri Abdul Kadir, 44, who served for 21 years before completing his military service in 2020. He was part of the initial group of 29 veterans who successfully completed the programme and received a certificate.
“It has opened our minds and exposed us to new opportunities, showing us how we can venture into civilian life through entrepreneurship,” he said.
The programme provided Mohd Nor Asri with training in business marketing and sales management, as well as enhancing his business acumen and financial literacy. These skills have helped him confidently manage and grow his enterprise. Since leaving the military, he has ventured into the F&B industry and also trades in rare and vintage items, which he sells at flea markets in Selangor.
Another success story is that of former Army Staff Sergeant (SSG) Nor Azlina Md Noor, 45. She described the programme as life-changing, giving her the confidence and skills to start her own business. She highlighted the practical guidance provided by the training modules, especially those focused on financial management and business planning.
“The programme empowered us to see our potential beyond uniformed service. It taught us how to stand on our own feet and contribute to society through business,” she explained.
Nor Azlina learned how to use online platforms to increase sales for her frozen food business within six months, showcasing the programme's effectiveness in equipping veterans with essential digital skills.
Programmes Designed for Long-Term Success
The Warrior Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme was designed to enhance the socio-economic resilience and entrepreneurial capacity of MAF veterans. The inaugural phase delivered strong measurable results, with MAF veterans completing six months of training and mentorship, recording an average 216% increase in income alongside substantial improvements in business acumen and financial literacy.
Beyond financial outcomes, the programme also fostered greater confidence, stronger family well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose among participants, indicating a holistic model of post-service empowerment.
LTAT is now rolling out a 2025/2026 programme which will engage over 35 MAF veterans identified through collaboration with the Armed Forces Ex-Servicemen Affairs Corporation (Perhebat). The upcoming phase will combine digital and in-person mentoring over six months, focusing on financial literacy, innovation, and market access to strengthen MAF veteran-led enterprises across the northern region.
Vision for the Future
LTAT chief executive Mohamad Ashraf Md Radzi emphasized the importance of such programmes in uplifting the welfare of the nation’s heroes. “It is a comprehensive empowerment model that builds resilience and promotes sustainable well-being among our veteran community,” he explained.
He added that the programme exemplifies LTAT’s broader commitment under “Ekonomi Madani”, strengthening financial inclusion and promoting equitable growth through entrepreneurship. He noted that the success of this programme proved that financial empowerment and social progress could move in tandem within one ecosystem.
Government Support and Expansion
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, who launched the programme at the Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Butterworth, Penang, highlighted the crucial role of the initiative in helping MAF veterans transition successfully into entrepreneurship after retirement. He pointed out that more than 60% of MAF veterans venture into business after completing their service.
“Through the programme, participants receive comprehensive training covering financial management, business operations, and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to improve their knowledge and income-generating potential,” he said.
Adly noted that many veterans, some of whom have retired for up to 10 years, are involved in business. “This programme helps them strengthen their business understanding and increase their income,” he added.
He also mentioned that the training covered a wide range of sectors, including F&B, retail, furniture making, and manufacturing, with a growing emphasis on digital entrepreneurship to ensure veterans remained competitive in today’s market.
“The knowledge gained, from managing capital to identifying business opportunities, is essential to helping them stand on their own and continue contributing to the nation’s economy,” he concluded.