Stronger line of defence in Sabah, S'wak

The Star

19-05-2025

Ever ready: Saifuddin Nasution (centre, front row) posing for a group photo at the launch of the three battalions at the Sabah GOF Brigade in Papar.
KOTA KINABALU: Three new General Operations Force (GOF) battalions in Sabah and Sarawak will play a significant role in strengthening the country's internal security, says the Home Minister.
Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the launch of its operations reaffirmed the police's unwavering commitment to their core duty of safeguarding national security and public order.
Speaking at the launch of the three battalions at the Sabah GOF Brigade in Papar yesterday, he said the key aspects are the readiness of the police force to respond to security threats, the government's continued investment in personnel welfare and operational facilities, and Malaysia's improved ranking in the Global Peace Index.
'This confirms the state of preparedness of our police force for any scenario. We must always be alert, especially in light of past incidents such as the 2013 Lahad Datu incursion,' Saifuddin Nasution said, referring to the security crisis in eastern Sabah over a decade ago.
Two of the three battalions are in Sabah.
The 21st, 22nd and 23rd GOF battalions are based in Sabah's interior Keningau and its east coast district Kunak, and in Sarawak's Sri Aman, respectively.
This brings the total number of GOF battalions nationwide to 23, with a combined strength of around 12,000 personnel.
Saifuddin Nasution said the new battalions will enhance the GOF's elite operational capacity across land, sea and air.
'These troops are highly trained. Their recent successes, including multi-billion ringgit seizures under operations like Op Hazard and E-Waste, speak volumes,' he said.
The minister also spoke of the government's commitment to ensuring a conducive working environment through budget allocations for improved welfare, office infrastructure and accommodation.
'A well-trained team with poor living conditions and inadequate assets will still be limited.
'So, we are also investing in new equipment and facilities, most of which will be rolled out this year,' he said.
On Malaysia's security performance, Saifuddin Nasution said the country's standing in the Global Peace Index is currently in 10th place among more than 160 countries.
'This is no coincidence. It is the result of strategic planning and uncompromising security policies.
'It is also crucial for investor confidence. Safety remains a key metric for any country hoping to attract foreign investments.'
Saifuddin Nasution also said the government has approved the development of eight GOF posts, seven in Sarawak and one in Sabah, along the Malaysia-Kalimantan border with an allocation of RM32mil.
He said the construction of administrative complexes and staff quarters at Battalion 20 GOF in Beluran, Sabah, and Battalion 10 GOF in Sarikei, Sarawak, is underway.
These projects, valued at RM400mil and RM200mil respectively, are expected to be completed within the year.
He also announced that the GOF will replace its current operational uniforms with new camouflage attire featuring improved design, colour and pattern.