GOF eyes more forward bases along Sarawak-Indonesia border ahead of Nusantara capital move
KUCHING (Aug 14): The General Operations Force (GOF) is proposing to set up more forward operating bases (FOBs) along the Sarawak-Indonesia border in light of Indonesia's capital relocation to Nusantara in Kalimantan.
Deputy director of Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department (GOF), DCP Dato Mohd Suzrin Mohd Rodhi said the proposals are aimed at strengthening security along the border.
'For Sarawak, one new battalion has been approved ― Battalion 23 in Sri Aman.
'For our upcoming border projects, we have more proposals to set up FOBs to strengthen GOF Sarawak, in line with the relocation of Indonesia's capital to Nusantara.
'Strengthening Sarawak's borders is essential to ensure the public safety in the state,' he told reporters after witnessing the handover of duties between outgoing GOF Sarawak commander between outgoing commander DCP Dr Che Ghazali Che Wang and SAC Lim Bak Phai here today.
Mohd Suzrin revealed that the GOF Sarawak Brigade is expected to receive new assets by the end of this year or early next year, following approval from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) top leadership and the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN).
The move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the force's capabilities under its reform and rebranding framework, which covers both administrative and logistical aspects.
'The strategic plan at Bukit Aman has been approved by the Director of Logistics, the Director of Internal Security and Public Order, the Inspector-General of Police, and KDN. It is also included in the Malaysia Plan and other border-related projects,' he said.
He added that the approval would allow the addition of key assets to boost GOF operations from Tanjung Datu to Limbang, covering the South China Sea coastline to Long Banga, which borders Kalimantan.
Among the new assets are FOBs, armoured personnel carriers (APCs), four-wheel drive vehicles, and surveillance drones.
'Some assets, such as robust vehicles, have been delivered in stages since late last year. We are also working closely with the Marine Police and Air Wing to ensure the deployment of personnel to forward posts can be carried out via land or air,' he said.
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