The purpose of this letter is not to speculate or insinuate anything. The purpose is to express concern over some events that have taken place.

A few months ago, cadet Zulfarhan Osman of the Malaysian National Defence University died, purportedly after he was tortured by fellow students.

The defence minister promised a thorough investigation into the case to ensure that truth and justice were upheld.

Just a few days ago, two navy personnel, Nik Muhammad Baihaqy Nik Mat and Muhammad Lailatulman Mohd Sukri, were found dead, again allegedly tortured and beaten up.

The navy chief and defence minister again promised a thorough investigation.

Military establishments are supposed to be tough. But they are also known for their discipline and gentlemanly conduct.

Mishaps do happen during training, but all deaths, be they accidental, mysterious or unexplained, must be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators held responsible. This includes extreme exhaustion that causes death.

If personnel die during training, it calls into question the training methodology and competency of supervising officers.

Military personnel are trained to fight fairly and be courageous. They are supposed to fight the oppressors and protect the weak. Certainly bullying or torturing others is not among the traits of the military.

I think it is time for the military to re-examine the training methodology of its new recruits, regardless of the outcomes of the above cases.

Bullying, tormenting and torturing others is cowardly. If we have seniors doing it to juniors or trainers doing it to trainees, it will irreparably damage our military.

We want our military to be heroic, not cowardly. We want them to be brave and defend the weak, not bully those who can’t fight back.

TK Chua is an FMT reader

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.