Sarawak steps up territorial army readiness to safeguard State security

Muhammad Abdullah (centre) in a photo with members of Sarawak Territorial Army Empowerment Committee following a meeting on April 21, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, April 22: Sarawak is stepping up efforts to elevate the role and operational readiness of the Sarawak Territorial Army Regiment, positioning the volunteer force as a key pillar in safeguarding the State’s security landscape through a more structured and coordinated approach.

According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), this commitment was underscored with the inaugural meeting of the Sarawak Territorial Army Empowerment Committee (JPAWS) held on Tuesday (April 21), marking a significant milestone in strengthening the State’s territorial defence framework.

Chaired by Lt Col (K) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, the meeting reflects the Sarawak government’s strategic push to enhance the capabilities and effectiveness of the Rejimen Askar Wataniah Sarawak amid evolving security demands.

Muhammad Abdullah, who is also Deputy State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development), stressed the government’s continued commitment to advancing the regiment in line with Sarawak’s expanding strategic interests and development trajectory.

Sarawak government views JPAWS as a catalyst to reinforce the regiment’s operational strength, contributing to long-term security, stability and public well-being across the State.

Deliberations centred on two key priorities, including strengthening human capital and upgrading infrastructure, to ensure the force remains capable, responsive and future-ready.

Members also highlighted the urgent need to modernise existing facilities to support more efficient and sustainable operational preparedness.

Among those present were JPAWS members from various State agencies, including Datu Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood, Datu Ir Ts Dr Cassidy Morris (who joined virtually), Datu Sharifah Rohana Datu Wan Alwi, Datu Ir Ts Awang Mohammad Fadillah Awang Redzuan and Lt Col Lim Bih Wei.

Also in attendance were representatives from the Territorial Army, namely Lt Col Budiman Zainal, Deputy Commander of the 510 Territorial Army Regiment, and Lt Col Khairul Aziz Abdullah, Deputy Commander of the 511 Territorial Army Regiment, who participated virtually. — DayakDaily