Operatives of Gerak Khas (right) and PASKAL (left) arms with Colt M4A1 SOPMOD and Heckler & Koch G36C during the 65th Merdeka Day in Kuala Lumpur.
Origin: Malaysian Special Service Unit
Gerak Khas which was founded on 7 May 1965 as the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU), is the successor to the Malayan Special Forces. This unit started as a special operations task force, with all of its members receiving commando training from the Royal Marines' 40 Commando.[6][7]
Abdul Razak's involvement in the anti-Japanese resistance was unique. Coming from a prominent Malay noble family, he infiltrated the Japanese-Malayan administration under the guise of collaboration, using his position to gather intelligence. His wartime experiences with guerrilla tactics inspired his vision for a Malaysian special forces unit.[8][7]
The MSSU recruited personnel from all branches of the MAF, although most successful candidates came from the Malaysian Army, with a smaller number from the Royal Malaysian Navy. As the largest branch of the MAF, the Malaysian Army took administrative responsibility for the MSSU. The unit was conceived as an ad hoc task force, and its structure reflected its temporary status.[9][7]
10773 Lance Corporal Muhammad Shah Izwan Bin Hanafi
Following this, six additional Basic Commando Courses were conducted, allowing the MSSU to reach its full operational strength. At the time, the MSSU was stationed at Camp Sebatang Karah in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, marking the beginning of Malaysia's modern special forces development.[9]
The MSSU was on the verge of being disbanded by the brass after the Indonesia–Malaysia conflict officially ended in 1966. The Communist insurgency occurred in 1968, but at the time, all military units in Malaysia were trained in jungle warfare, and Malaysia was assisted by special forces from the Commonwealth of Nations for special operations. Malaysian police, in addition to the military, had their own jungle squads (now known as General Operations Force) to assist in combating communists at the time. A special operations task force did not appear to be required.[7][9]
The 13 May incident occurred in major cities throughout Peninsular Malaysia in 1969, and the MSSU was dispatched from Camp Sebatang Karah to defend the Camp Mindef (Kem Kementah) in Kuala Lumpur. MSSU also collaborated with the Royal Malaysia Police's Special Branch to apprehend leaders of gangsters and triads who contributed to the incident's racial tensions behind the scenes. As a result, the incident was short-lived, and the brass decided not to disband the MSSU.[7]
The MSSU, as a task force, was made up of commando-trained soldiers and sailors from various regiments and corps of the Malaysian Army and Royal Malaysian Navy. This creates a problem because the soldiers and sailors are also responsible for their original units. On 1 August 1970, army command relocated the MSSU to Camp Sungai Udang in Malacca and established a new unit as the MSSU's successor. The regiment is known as the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment. Soldiers and sailors who wanted to serve as special forces had to resign from their original units and volunteer to join the 1 MSSR by 1973.[7][10]
Only two are still under the command of the 21st Special Service Group. The camps are as follows:
Camp Sungai Udang
Camp Sungai Udang is known as the 'Home of the Commandos' and the spiritual home of the Gerak Khas. The Pusat Latihan Peperangan Khas (PULPAK; 'Special Warfare Training Centre') was established here in 1976 as part of the 3rd Malaysian Plan and the expansion of the Armed Forces. Due to overcrowding at Sungai Udang Military Camp, the 22nd Commando Regiment relocated to Kuala Kubu Bharu in 1983. This camp is still occupied by two Gerak Khas regiments today.
Camp Sri Iskandar
Troopers of Gerak Khas during a Counter-Terrorism demo.
The 21st Special Service Group, along with one of its combat regiments and all supporting units, has relocated to the newly established special operations force base at Camp Sri Iskandar (Kem Sri Iskandar) in Mersing. Situated 15 kilometres (9.3mi) south of Mersing, Camp Sri Iskandar spans an area of 2,000 acres (8.1km2) and is equipped with extensive infrastructure. The base comprises 200 buildings, 20 kilometres (12mi) of roads, three bridges, a harbour, helicopter landing pads, parade squares, and various other facilities designed to support special operations forces. The total cost of the project amounted to MYR 422 million.[11]
Originally named Camp Sri Mersing, the base was later renamed Camp Sri Iskandar in honour of the late Sultan Iskandar of Johor, a dedicated supporter of Gerak Khas and its former Colonel-in-Chief.[11]
The 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG; Malay: 21 Gerup Gerak Khas) serves as the primary command for the Gerak Khas commandos, with the majority of its personnel attached to this unit. As the special forces command of the Malaysian Army, 21 SSG operates as a brigade-sized special operations formation reporting directly to the Chief of Army.[note 3][10]
The group consists of three special forces regiments, each specialising in different aspects of unconventional warfare, and is supported by various special forces support units that enhance its operational capabilities. The 21st Special Service Group is commanded by a major general, reflecting its significance within the Malaysian Army's elite forces structure.[10]
Special Forces Directorate
The Special Forces Directorate is a small group of around 20 personnel, tasked with planning and co-ordination of resources and equipment of 21st Special Service Group. The directorate also provides assistance during operational deployment of 21st Special Service Group units and formulate policy guidelines. The Cell also undertakes Planning and Intelligence tasks as well as Operational Research Section.[12]
Others
Apart from their primary role within the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG), some Gerak Khas commandos serve as instructors at the Special Warfare Training Centre. This centre, now managed by the Malaysian Army Training and Doctrine Command (MyTRADOC), plays a crucial role in training special forces personnel. Additionally, a detachment of Gerak Khas commandos has been assigned to the Malaysian Army Ready Battalion, where they serve as a special operations element.[13]
During the 1980s, some Gerak Khas commandos were also attached to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) under the Ground and Air Defence Force (HANDAU). Within HANDAU, they formed the RMAF Air Rescue Team, a combat search and rescue (CSAR) unit, as well as the RMAF Rapid Deployment Force (RDF), an air assault unit. These assignments showcased the versatility and adaptability of Gerak Khas, extending their expertise beyond the army.[14]
In 2016, Malaysia's main counter-terrorism operators merged to form a single special operations task force. Some 11th Special Service Regiment operators have been chosen to serve in the National Special Operations Force.[15] The National Special Operations Force was disbanded in July 2018.
Defence Special Operations Division
Following the disbandment of the National Special Operations Force (NSOF) in 2018, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) sought to establish a new joint special operations task force exclusively composed of elite units from within the MAF. This initiative led to the formation of the Defence Special Operations Division (DSOD), or Bahagian Operasi Pasukan Khas Pertahanan, in 2020.[16]
Shortened from the Ministry of Defence Special Operations Division, the DSOD serves as the joint special operations task force across the different branches of the military. Several Gerak Khas commandos have been assigned to this unit, further strengthening its operational capabilities.[5]
91st Intelligence Operations Group
Originally established as the Pasukan Khas Perisikan Tempur (Combat Intelligence Special Forces), this unit was formed on 1 April 1972 with 35 commandos from Gerak Khas assigned to serve as a combat intelligence unit under the Royal Intelligence Corps. Over time, the unit expanded in scope, eventually evolving into what is now known as the 91st Intelligence Operations Group (91 Gerup Operasi Perisikan, 91 GOP).[17][3]
Today, 91 GOP is responsible for various military intelligence operations, with a select number of its personnel being trained as special forces operatives focused on intelligence gathering and covert missions. Those aspiring to join the special forces component of the unit must successfully pass the Malaysian Special Forces selection process, similar to the requirements for other elite units within Gerak Khas.[3][17]
Recruitment, selection and training
The Gerak Khas with HK MP5A3 in the Rapid Intervention Vehicle during the National Day Parade of 2014.
On 1 August 1976, the Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC), known in Malay as Pusat Latihan Peperangan Khusus (PULPAK), was officially established. Before its formation, the responsibility of training Gerak Khas commandos fell under the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment. With the creation of SWTC, training was centralised and systematised to enhance the capabilities of Malaysia's special operations forces.[10]
Although no longer under the command of the 21st Special Service Group, SWTC continues to receive support from the 21st Commando Regiment, 22nd Commando Regiment, and 11th Special Service Regiment, which contribute both manpower and expertise. Its primary role is to provide specialised training tailored to modern operational requirements.[note 4]
To train basic commandos for the Malaysian Army and other services (Navy, Air Force).
To train Special Operations Forces personnel as well as other soldiers in specialised training and special operations as directed by higher authorities.
To provide advanced training for Special Operations Forces and army personnel as directed by higher authority.
To carry out training and evaluation tests on Special Operations Forces units.
To deliver qualified observers and instructors for specialised assignments in Special Operations Forces Units.
To revise and analyse all doctrines pertaining to specialised training and operations.
Two members of Gerak Khas using jet ski during a demo at Banding Lake, Perak. One of them is armed with a Colt M4A1 assault rifle.
The Malaysian Army Gerak Khas selection and training pipeline consists of three main stages: Preparatory Course, the Basic Commando Course, and Continuation Training. This rigorous selection and training process is conducted three times a year, with both officers and other ranks undergoing the same selection criteria to join Gerak Khas.[18][17]
Before the 2020s, military personnel who wished to volunteer for the Gerak Khas selection were required to serve in any military branch, corps, or regiment for at least one year before becoming eligible. However, in the 2020s, this requirement was revised to allow new recruits in boot camp to be considered for selection. Candidates must be identified and recommended by boot camp instructors based on their potential and physical capabilities. Despite this change, recruits must still complete their basic military training before being allowed to enter the special forces selection process.[18][17]
Preparatory Course (4 weeks)
The Preparatory Course for the Gerak Khas selection pipeline is officially known as Pemanasan Kursus Asas Komando in Malay, which translates to "Warm-up for the Basic Commando Course". Also referred to as the Gerak Khas orientation, this 30-day course is designed to prepare candidates for the physically and mentally demanding Basic Commando Course.[19]
During this phase, trainees undergo introductory training, focusing on physical conditioning, mental resilience, and basic skills required for the next stage of selection. Unlike the Basic Commando Course, the Preparatory Course is less strict, and trainees are occasionally permitted to leave camp on weekends. However, by the end of the course, they must pass a fitness and swimming test to qualify for the Basic Commando Course.[20]
Basic Commando Course (12 weeks)
The Malaysian Army conducts the Kursus Asas Komando (Basic Commando Course) three times a year at the Special Warfare Training Centre, located in Camp Sungai Udang, Malacca. This intensive 12-week course is divided into five phases and serves as the gateway to joining Gerak Khas and other special forces.[note 5][20]
The training module is comparable to a condensed version of the pre-2000 United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, which lasted 15 weeks. Historically, the course initially lasted 24 weeks in the 1970s before being streamlined to 12 weeks in the 1980s. While primarily designed for the Malaysian Armed Forces, the course is also open to members of the Johor Military Forces (JMF). Additionally, special forces trainees from friendly nations, including Brunei, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, have participated in the program.[21][20]
Trainee whom pass will be given a week rest after final phase and before green beret award ceremony. At the ceremony, the graduates will perform a beach assault demonstration in front of VIPs and graduates' family and friends before they will be awarded green beret, light blue lanyard and a Fairbairn & Sykes Commando Dagger.
Advanced training
The Special Warfare Training Centre provides advanced special operations training up to supervisor level. There are a few exceptions where Gerak Khas commandos are sent to overseas schools for advanced training. However, this is reserved for the best trainees. Among the advanced training courses available are:
The 2nd Special Service Regiment was established on 1 January 1977, based at Camp Sungai Udang, Malacca. In 1979, Colonel Borhan Bin Ahmad was appointed the Commandant of Special Warfare Training Centre. A separate Special Forces Directorate was established in the Ministry of Defence on 4 April 1980 and the Markas Pemerintahan Gerak Khas (English: Malaysian Special Service Command) was established in Camp Imphal, Kuala Lumpur. As such, supporting units were attached to Gerak Khas.
The commando units were then re-designated and 1st Special Service Regiment became 21st Regiment Para Commando and 2 Special Service Regiment became 22nd Regiment Para Commando. On 1 April 1981, the 11th and 12th Special Service Regiments were formed to provide support to 21st Commando and 22nd Commando. However 12th Special Service Regiment was disbanded soon after during the realignment of the Malaysian Army in the 1980s and its members were deployed to other combat units. Further to this development, the designation for the Para Commando Regiment was changed to the Commando Regiment. In 1983, 22nd Commando Regiment moved to Kuala Kubu Baru due to insufficient facilities in Camp Sungai Udang. All three as well as the Royal Malaysian Navy PASKAL will be soon moving out to the new SOF base in Mersing, facing the South China Sea unlike the Sungai Udang which is facing the very busy waterway of the Straits of Malacca. Camp Sungai Udang is very small and lacking in many facilities for a good SOF base and training centre. It is also near to a massive oil refinery and countless condominium projects which makes it unsuitable for security and practical reasons. The 3 regiments again had a name change, becoming known as 11th CRW Regiment, 21st Commando Regiment and 22nd Commando Regiment.
Camp Sungai Udang was certified as the 'Home of the Commandos'. Its achievements attracted many volunteers from other corps. Lieutenant Colonel Borhan bin Ahmad was the first administrator of MSSG responsible for expanding the Special Operations Forces. Various activities including sports and other Army activities were organised to get the SOF involved. Joint programs are conducted with other countries such as Britain, New Zealand, Australia and the United States to improve knowledge and to get new experience in certain aspects of SOF operations.
In the Third Malaysia Plan and the expansion of the Armed Forces, Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC) was established on 1 August 1976. The function is to fulfill the training requirements for the Special Forces Team. After the establishment of SWTC, the Second Regiment of Special Service was established on 1 January 1977. All the three units were based in Sungai Udang, Malacca. In 1979, SWTC was fully established with Colonel Borhan bin Ahmad as the Commandant.
The Special Forces Directorate was established in the Ministry of Defence on 4 April 1980. Further to this, in January 1981, Gerak Khas Command Headquarters was established in Camp Imphal, Kuala Lumpur. The establishment of the Special Operations Forces group also involved other elements such as the combat support units and service support units. At the same time the names of the commando units were re-designated to 21st Regiment Para Commando and 22nd Regiment Para Commando.
Uniforms and insignia
A Gerak Khas corporal serves visitors at a weapon booth. Take note of the light blue lanyard, the green chevron rank, and the sleeve folding style.
Gerak Khas commandos wear the standard combat uniform used by other units of the Malaysian Army. From the early 1970s until 1997, the Malaysian Army utilised the brushstroke camouflage pattern. This was replaced by the Tiger Stripe (Harimau Belang) pattern, which remained in use from 1997 to 2014. Since 2014, the army has adopted a digital camouflage pattern, which continues to be used at present.
Despite wearing the standard-issue uniform, Gerak Khas commandos are distinguished by several unique elements. These include the green beret bearing the Harimau Berjuangcap badge, a light blue lanyard (a tradition inherited from 40 Commando, Royal Marines), the Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife (commando dagger), tightly rolled sleeves, and the GERAKHAS shoulder tab.
The distinctive elements of the uniform are detailed as follows:
Green beret
The green beret is a widely recognised symbol among special forces worldwide. Gerak Khas commandos wear theirs with the 'Harimau Berjuang' cap badge. Unlike other military units, Gerak Khas follows the Royal Marines' beret-wearing style, where the cap badge is positioned on the left side of the beret, facing the side above the ear. This tradition was passed down from the Royal Marines Scout Snipers during the Communist insurgency in Malaysia and is still used by British units like the 45 Commando of the Royal Marines and the Parachute Regiment.[22]
'Harimau Berjuang' Cap badge
The Harimau Beruang cap badge
The 'Harimau Berjuang' (Fighting Tiger) cap badge features a roaring tiger, a commando dagger at the centre, an anchor rope, and a scroll bearing the unit's motto, "Cepat dan Cergas" (Fast and Agile). The current gold-coloured version of the badge has been in service since the 2010s, replacing the earlier silver-coloured variant.[9]
The original design, which served as the basis for the modern version, was introduced in 1970 following the establishment of the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment (1 MSSR). This earlier version featured a different depiction of the tiger, informally referred to as the "Laughing Tiger", which was designed by members of 1 MSSR while based at Camp Sungai Udang. The design was inspired by the "Chap Harimau" (Tiger Brand) cement logo, which was commonly seen around the camp during its renovation. The original badge also used the Romanised Bahasa Melayu of the Za'aba Spelling System, with the unit's motto written as "Chepat dan Chergas", rather than the modern spelling adopted today.[note 6][9]
The cap badge is worn by all Gerak Khas commandos regardless of their unit affiliation. For example, in the 1980s, Gerak Khas commandos who were attached to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Ground and Air Defence Force (HANDAU) for special operations tasks, whether they originated from the Malaysian Army or the RMAF, continued to wear the distinctive Gerak Khas green beret with the unit's cap badge. This was worn with the red beret backing (beret flash) of the RMAF Regiment to indicate their attachment to RMAF formations.[9]
Light blue lanyard
Gerak Khas commandos wear a light blue lanyard, a mark of honour bestowed upon them by their founders and instructors, the 40 Commando of the Royal Marines. This tradition dates back to 1965, when 40 Commando RM was responsible for training Malaysia's first special forces unit, the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU). In Malaysia, all soldiers who successfully complete the Basic Commando Course at the Special Warfare Training Centre are awarded this light blue lanyard.[23]
'GERAKHAS' Shoulder flash
'GERAKHAS' Shoulder Flash
Gerak Khas commandos also wear a golden-black GERAKHAS shoulder flash on their left sleeve. This insignia is worn in a similar manner to the U.S. Army Special Forces Tab, signifying their status as elite special forces operators within the Malaysian Army.
Ranks
Unlike regular Malaysian Army units that use black chevron bars, Gerak Khas commandos wear distinctive green bar chevrons on their No. 5 combat uniform for other ranks (Malay: Lain-lain Pangkat). This unique insignia sets them apart from standard infantry units.
Sleeves with a high fold
One of the distinctive traditions of Gerak Khas is their unique sleeve-folding style, known as Lipatan Gaya Samseng in Malay (Gangster-Style Sleeve Fold). Unlike the formal sleeve-folding of the Malaysian Army, where the camouflage pattern remains visible, Gerak Khas commandos fold their sleeves higher, revealing the plain inner side of the uniform and exposing their biceps. This style is inherited from the Royal Marines' No. 3B Summer Dress and the Special Air Service (SAS) during the Communist insurgency (1968–1989).[24]
Commando dagger
As a symbol of graduation, the first generation of Gerak Khas commandos who completed the Royal Marines' Basic Commando Course were awarded the Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife. This tradition continues in the present day. Graduates of the Special Warfare Training Centre receive the Fairbairn–Sykes commando dagger, along with the green beret and light blue lanyard.[25]
The commando dagger also forms part of the ceremonial dress of the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG) and is worn on the left side of the belt during military parades.[25]
Equipment
As an elite unit, there is a broad range of various weapons used by the 21 SSG. The known weapons used by the unit, include handguns, shotguns, submachine guns, assault rifles, machine-guns, sniper rifles, grenade launchers and anti-tanks, are:
Fitted with the M203 grenade launcher, Brügger & Thomet Rotex V suppressor, FAB NFR EX rails, Steiner OTAL-A laser designators, MARS sight and various European-made accessories, similar to SOPMOD accessories.
During the Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation, the Gerak Khas, which was then known as the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU), was established in 1965 to strengthen Malaysia's defence against incursions by Indonesian forces.[9]
These forces were deployed to Sebatik Island, Tawau, and Semporna, located near the Indonesia–Malaysia border. Their mission was to reinforce the existing defensive line, provide support to forward units, conduct long-range reconnaissance patrols in jungle terrain along the border, and repel Indonesian troops attempting to cross into Malaysian territory by land or sea.[9]
During the racial riots of May 1969, the Malaysian Special Service Unit was tasked with securing the Camp Mindef (Kem Kementah) in Kuala Lumpur from potential attacks. Some commandos also collaborated with the Malaysian Police Special Branch, the country's domestic intelligence agency, to apprehend gang leaders and triad members who were fuelling racial tensions behind the scenes.
Throughout the communist insurgency, Gerak Khas commandos engaged in counterinsurgency operations, conducting jungle warfare missions against the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) insurgents.[2]
In 1994, two Malaysian soldiers were killed in action when their vehicle was ambushed by militants during an intelligence-gathering mission led by the Italian peacekeeping force. The fallen soldiers were Staff Sergeant Azman Mohamad Tahir of the 21st Commando Regiment and Corporal Gani Binjoi of the Royal Ranger Regiment.[33]
Bosnia and Herzegovina (1993–1996)
Gerak Khas commandos, mainly from the 11th Special Service Regiment, were deployed to Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the UN Protection Force (UNPROFOR) from 1993 to 1995 and later the Implementation Force (IFOR) from 1995 to 1996. Malaysia was the only Muslim country to deploy special forces as part of its peacekeeping contingent. These commandos were frequently called upon to support peacekeeping operations, particularly in high-risk areas such as Sniper Alley.[34][35]
16th Commonwealth Games (1998)
During the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, Gerak Khas commandos from the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG) were deployed alongside the Pasukan Gerakan Khas (PGK), the Police Special Operations Command. Their role was to provide security and stand by for hostage rescue operations if necessary.
Gerak Khas commandos from the 22nd Commando Regiment (22 Cdo) were deployed to Bukit Jenalik, Sauk, near Kuala Kangsar, Perak, to capture 32 Al-Ma'unah militants who had fortified a hill after raiding and stealing weapons from a military camp in Gerik. The operation, codenamed Operation 304, aimed to neutralise the threat and rescue hostages.[36][37]
During the standoff, two Special Actions Unit police personnel—Sergeant Mohd Shah Ahmad and Detective Corporal Sagadevan Rajoo—along with a civilian, Jaafar Puteh, were taken hostage by the militants. As the operation unfolded, Corporal Matthew anak Medan, a Gerak Khas commando from 22 Cdo, was captured while conducting reconnaissance. He was tortured and later executed after refusing to comply with the militants' demands. Detective Corporal Sagadevan was also killed before the remaining hostages were successfully rescued.[36]
Gerak Khas, under the 21 SSG, was deployed alongside the 10th Parachute Brigade (10 PARA) and the Royal Malaysian Police's PGK as part of Operation Astute, an Australian-led peacekeeping mission to stabilise Timor-Leste.[38]
On 17 July 2007, the wreckage was discovered approximately 5 kilometres (3.1mi) from the reported crash site. Tragically, all six crew members were found deceased inside the cabin.[39]
Gerak Khas was mobilised to Lahad Datu, Sabah, during the 2013 standoff against armed Sulu militants. Alongside other Malaysian Special Forces units, they played a crucial role in tracking, engaging, and neutralising the insurgents.
He was killed in action (KIA) during a military operation in Chemor, Perak. In recognition of his bravery, he was posthumously awarded the nation's highest gallantry honour, the Grand Knight of Valour (SP), in 1972.
Trooper
Ali
1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment
1974
He was KIA during a military operation in Sarawak.
Lance Corporal
Saimon Tarikat
1983
He was KIA during a military operation in Kuala Kelawang, Negeri Sembilan
He died in a traffic accident while returning to Camp Erskine from Camp Sungai Udang after attending a routine meeting with the Malaysian Army Special Forces leadership. At the time, he was the commanding officer of the 22nd Para Commando Regiment.
Staff Sergeant
Azman Mohd Tahir
21st Commando Regiment
1994
He and Corporal Gani Binjoi of the Royal Ranger Regiment were KIA during an intelligence-gathering mission led by the Italian peacekeeping force under the UNOSOM II mission in Somalia. Their vehicle was ambushed at the KM4 roundabout in Mogadishu.
He was KIA during Operation 304 in Sauk, Perak. Posthumously promoted to sergeant, he was awarded the nation's second-highest gallantry honour, the Star of the Commander of Valour (PGB).
He was killed during weapon demonstration in Kota Kinabalu.
Lance Corporal
Edrin Baintim
22nd Commando Regiment
2023
He was drowned during combat diver training after going missing near Undan Island, Malacca. His body was discovered 12 days later near Tanjung Sepat, Selangor, approximately 90 kilometres (49nmi) from where he was last seen.[44]
Lance Corporal
Mohd Afandi Jahwin
21st Commando Regiment
2024
He was drowned due to a headwater surge while on a nine-man patrol along a river in Banding, Perak, near the Malaysia-Thailand border. The patrol, consisting of commandos from various units within the 21st Special Service Group, was caught in the sudden surge while patrolling near Sungai Merah (Merah River). He and another commando, Lance Corporal Ahmad Zulhilmi Ahmad Tarmizi from the 22nd Commando Regiment, were swept away by the strong currents. His body was later found 3 kilometres (1.9mi) from where he was last seen, while Ahmad Zulhilmi remains missing.[45]
Corporal
Mohd Haswansir Julnasir
22nd Commando Regiment
2025
According to initial reports, Corporal Mohd Haswansir Julnasir of the 22nd Commando Regiment was reported missing and presumed drowned during a combat diver training exercise near Kuantan Port on 3 July 2025. At approximately 1215 hours, he and three other commandos were conducting a descent to the seabed using SCUBA gear while following a guide rope. However, only the three other divers resurfaced, and Corporal Haswansir failed to return to the surface. A search and rescue (SAR) operation was immediately initiated, but efforts to locate him were unsuccessful. His body was subsequently recovered on 5 July, lodged against a stone breakwater approximately 300 metres (980ft) from his last known position.
Notable members
Many Gerak Khas commandos have received decorations for bravery and gallantry. Aside from that, some Gerak Khas commandos have done many notable things that have etched their names in history.[46]
Ahmad Abdul RashidPGB – Ahmad bin Abdul Rashid (Service number: 410336) was awarded the Star of the Commander of Valour (Malay: Panglima Gagah Berani — PGB), Malaysia's second highest valour award, in 1975 for his role in Operation Murai in 1974. Then a Captain, he was the first Officer Commanding of the Pasukan Khas Perisikan Tempur (Combat Intelligence Special Forces), the predecessor of the 91st Intelligence Operations Group, and led a raid on a communist guerrilla camp in Karak, Pahang. In 1985, while serving as Commander of the 22nd Para Commando Regiment (now the 22nd Commando Regiment) with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he tragically died in a traffic accident while returning to Camp Erskine from Camp Sungai Udang.[47]
Ahmed Abdul Rahman – Ahmed is one of 20 Malaysians who took part in an expedition that made Malaysia the first Asian country to perform a free-fall parachute jump at the North Pole. On 21 April 1998, he and 19 other skydivers, mostly commandos from the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Malaysia Police, jumped out of a plane with a Proton Wira. Gerak Khas was represented by only Ahmed Abdul Rahman (Lieutenant at the time) and Maznan Mat Isa. The expedition is a collaboration between the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Royal Malaysia Police, and a Proton-sponsored adventure club. There is one female skydiver who is a mother of five children, and the youngest skydiver is 21 years old.[48]
Md Ali AhmadPGB – Md. Ali bin Ahmad (Service number: 23852) was awarded the PGB in 1974 at the age of 23 for his bravery during Operation Gonzales in Perak, making him the youngest PGB recipient in history. Then a Trooper (the official rank designation for Private in 21 SSG), he received the honour alongside his teammate, Corporal Zaki Nordin. In 1977, he transferred to the Special Investigation Branch of the Royal Military Police Corps, where he served until his retirement in 1991 as a Staff Sergeant.[49]
Baharin Abd JalilPGB – Baharin bin Abd Jalil (Service number: 410560) is one of the PGB recipients. He was awarded the PGB in 1971 for his role in Operation Hentam. He later became a member of Gerak Khas. He was a Major when he retired from the military.
Borhan Ahmad – He is the only commando in the Malaysian Armed Forces to have attained the highest professional position. He was appointed the 12th Chief of Defence Forces on 1 January 1994. He retired from the military with the rank of General in 1995.
Clarence Tan – Tan is a Singapore army officer who founded the Singapore Armed Forces Commando Formation. In 1960, he volunteered for the Singapore Military Force (the predecessor of the Singapore Armed Forces) and was selected to attend the Officer Cadet Course at Malaysia's Royal Military College, where he was commissioned to Second Lieutenant. In 1965, he went through commando training with the Royal Marines and joined the Malaysian Special Service Unit. He was a member of the MSSU until 1969, when he was approached by the Director of the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute about forming a commando unit in the Singapore Armed Forces. He was appointed as the first Commanding Officer of the Singaporean 1st Commando Battalion, but due to slow recruitment to the new commando unit,[note 7] he was temporarily reassigned to the Malaysian Special Service Regiment, where he served in Sabah and Taiping, Perak during Malaysia's Communist insurgency. He returned to the Singapore Armed Forces in 1974 and has remained there ever since. In 1992, he retired from the military with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.[50][51]
Mahmor SaidPGB – Mahmor bin Said (Service number: 14812) is a recipient of the PGB. He received the PGB for his participation in a military operation in Sarawak. He was a Warrant Officer Class II when he retired from the military.[52]
Mathew MedanPGB – Mathew anak Medan received the PGB posthumously in 2002. During the Al-Mau'nah armed rebellion, he was a member of the 22nd Commando Regiment reconnaissance team at Sauk. While gathering intelligence, he was caught by a member of the rebel forces. Mathew was tortured after his identity was revealed, including being shot at his feet and hanging upside down from a tree before being killed. The rebels, on the other hand, lie to the government, claiming that Mathew has been taken hostage rather than killed. Posthumously, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.[37][36]
Maznan Mat Isa – Maznan is one of 20 Malaysians who took part in an expedition that made Malaysia the first Asian country to perform a free-fall parachute jump at the North Pole. Gerak Khas was represented by only Ahmed Abdul Rahman and Maznan Mat Isa (Warrant Officer Class II at the time).[48]
Muit AhmadPGB – Muit bin Ahmad (Service number: 928133) is a PGB recipient. In 1977, he was awarded the PGB for his participation in a military operation in Sarawak. He left the military in 1986 with the rank of Colour Sergeant.[53]
Moorthy Maniam – Moorthy was a member of Malaysia's first ten-man expedition, including M. Magendran, to the summit of Mount Everest in 1997. In 1998, he was involved in a military training accident that left the lower half of his body paralysed. He died in 2005 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant posthumously.
Rasli BuangSP – Rasli bin Buang (Service number: 19151) was posthumously awarded the Grand Knight of Valour (SP), Malaysia's highest valour award. On 6 July 1971, during a jungle patrol in Chemor, Perak, his team was ambushed by communist insurgents. When two teammates were shot, he rushed to their aid but was fatally shot in the neck while trying to rescue them. His sacrifice and bravery were honoured with the nation's highest military recognition and was posthumously promoted from Trooper to Lance Corporal.[note 8]
Sigai NawanPGB – Sigai anak Nawan (Service number: 901370) is a recipient of the PGB. In 1974, he was awarded the PGB for his 1972 mission in Kanowit, Sarawak. Sigai was a member of 5 Troop, Yankee Squadron, which was stationed at Camp Pagar Ruyong in Sibu, Sarawak, and was on standby as a quick reaction force at the time. His squadron received an emergency call to assist two different units under attack, and his troop was dispatched to one of the locations, Ulu Dap in Kanowit. He was involved in two gunfights there and managed to kill two enemies. He concluded his ten years of service with the rank of Corporal.[54]
Zaini Mohamad SaidSP – In the year 2000, an extremist group, Al-Mau'nah, led an armed rebellion to overthrow the government. The Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police are working together to subdue the rebellion that has made Sauk in Perak its base. Zaini was in charge of the military part. The rebel leader, Amin, desired to meet with the commanders of both military and law enforcement forces, so Zaini and Abdul Razak Mohd Yusof, representing the Royal Malaysia Police, agreed to meet with the rebel leader at Sauk. During the meeting, Amin attempts to shoot Zaini, but Zaini quickly pushes the rifle barrel to the side, causing Amin to instantly kill one of his own men, Halim. Both Zaini and Abdul Razak were awarded the Malaysian highest valour award, the Grand Knight of Valour, for their bravery. He retired from the military in 2001 with the rank of Lieutenant General.
Zaki NordinPGB – Zaki bin Nordin (Service number: 16075) was a PGB recipient. He and Trooper Md Ali Ahmad were both awarded PGB for the same operation, Operation Gonzales in Perak. He was a sergeant when he retired from the army. He died on 10 March 1984.[49][55]
In popular culture
Books, televisions and movie.
2011: "Beret Hijau" is an RTM TV series about a village boy who aspires to be a commando.[56]
2011: "Rejimen Gerak Khas: Pasukan Khusus Tentera Darat Malaysia"is a book about Gerak Khas' history was written by Ahmad Ridzuan Wan Chik.
2012: "Menjunjung Bere Hijau" is a book written by retired Army Major Nazar Talib. His life as an officer in the 21st Special Service Group was documented in the book.
2013: "Majalah Skot" is a 13-part RTM documentary about the Malaysian Army Corps and Regiments. Episode 11 is about the 21st Special Service Group.
2013: "Special Forces: Malaysia GGK" is a History Channel Asia documentary about Gerak Khas Selections.
2014: "Beret Hijau Musim 2" is an RTM TV series about the life of the season 1 protagonist in the 11th Special Service Regiment.
2015: "Bravo 5" is an action film based on true events about the five-man Gerak Khas reconnaissance patrol during the Second Malayan Emergency.[57]
2024: "Toughest Forces on Earth with Dean Scott, Ryan Bates, and Cameron" is an eight-part Netflix docuseries that explores elite military forces around the world. The Malaysian Gerak Khas is featured in one of the episodes, showcasing their intense training and operational capabilities. Other episodes highlight elite units from various nations, including the Naval Special Operations Command of the Philippine Navy and the Mexican Special Forces.
↑ At the time, Singapore was a state within Malaysia.
↑ At the time, the British Army Jungle Warfare Training School in Malaysia also hosted the jungle phase of the SAS Selection.
↑ The "21" in the 21st Special Service Group represents its designation as the 21st Combat Brigade in the Malaysian Army.
↑ In 1995, the SWTC was placed under the Malaysian Army Training and Doctrine Command.
↑ Held three times a year—more frequently than commando schools in other branches, which conduct courses twice annually—the Basic Commando Course at the Malaysian Army Special Warfare Training Centre is also open to Special Forces candidates from other military branches. However, upon graduation, these commandos return to their respective branches to serve in their own Special Forces units.
↑ The older Za'aba spelling system was gradually phased out after 1972.
↑ At the time, the Singaporean Army was primarily composed of National Service conscripts, who preferred assignments in armour and artillery regiments, making it difficult for the 1st Commando Battalion to recruit new members.
↑ His name is also spelt as Rusli Buang and Rasali Buang in some publications.
↑ Hardi Effendi Yaacob (26 November 2010). "Misi kemanusiaan berisiko tinggi"[High risk of humanitarian aid]. Berita Harian Online (in Malay). Archived from the original on 28 September 2011. Retrieved 30 December 2010.
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