Reader Azril sends us some photos of the recent 58th Malaysian Independence Day parade. The Malay armed forces use an interesting mix of armaments including, uniquely, the Heckler and Koch XM8, two of which are visible in the image below:

Note that the rear XM8, partly obscured, appears to feature a railed handguard that resembles that of the HK 416 (several of which are also present in the image. Also visible are many H&K MP5s, as well as no less than three G36s, from which the XM8 was derived, and two AKs; clearly H&K’s representatives have a very cozy relationship with the Malay government.

Azril writes:

Good day.

During Malaysia 58th Independence Day Parade. I’ve spotted several unique’s firearms displayed during the parade.

First two picture is from local news site showing Royal Malaysian Police VAT69 (Sand Beret) armed with Bushmaster Carbon 15 and UTK with Ferfrans SOAR (Note the UTK badge on the mag well).

And the next pictures three picture comes from Rafe (http://konflikdanmiliter.blogspot.my).

…

First the same overall UTK picture with their vehicle. 

Second, Royal Malaysian Police STAFOC (A new SWAT-type unit to counter organized crime and triads) with CZ Scorpion EVO 3 which will be replacing the H&K Mp5

And the last one is Royal Malaysian Navy PASKAL marching with H&K MP5 with grenade launcher and XM8 rifle. If we look closely, DMR version of XM8 also visible behind them.

Thanks to both Azril and Rafe!