Malaysian Special Forces Selection

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The Special Forces Selection is the recruitment, selection, and training process for candidates of the Special forces units in Malaysia. This selection process is not limited only to the special forces of the Malaysian Armed Forces but also includes the Royal Malaysian Police, the Malaysian Coast Guard, and the Johor Military Forces, which is a private army of the state of Johor. Currently, there are four training centres, also known as commando schools, and one non-commando school in Malaysia that conduct special forces selection. [1] [2]

Contents

In contrast to the United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, which originally had separate selections before being merged in the late 1990s, the Malaysian Armed Forces Special Forces Selection started as one before the Royal Malaysian Navy and Royal Malaysian Air Force initiated their own special forces selection processes in the mid-1980s. [3]

The Malaysian Army, which has the largest special forces among other service branches, conducts the selection process three times a year. [4]

The Malaysian Special Forces Selection typically involves two courses before candidates graduate from the selection and are awarded the beret according to their units and a combat knife. Depending on their commando school, graduates may also be awarded a special forces lanyard and insignia. [5] [4]

History

Origin: Special Operations Executive

Years prior to the independence of Malaya from the United Kingdom in 1957 and the formation of Malaysia in 1963, during World War II, the region now known as Malaysia witnessed the introduction of modern special forces. Force 136, the Far East branch of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), established a forward operating base in Kuala Kangsar, Perak. Citizens from various regions, including British Malaya, the Raj of Sarawak, North Borneo, and Southern Siam, such as Chin Phui Kong, Ibrahim Ismail, and Tunku Osman, underwent special forces training at the British Commando School under SOE. [6] [7]

The principles and expertise acquired during that training period continue to influence and shape the development of special forces in Malaysia today. [7]

Pre-independence

C Squadron (Rhodesian) of the Malayan Scouts during the Malayan Emergency in 1953. SAS troopers used maroon berets during this period. C Squadron (Rhodesian) SAS, 1953.jpg
C Squadron (Rhodesian) of the Malayan Scouts during the Malayan Emergency in 1953. SAS troopers used maroon berets during this period.

Following the conclusion of World War II, Malaya and Borneo found themselves embroiled in a new conflict against communism. The Malayan Emergency, which commenced in 1948, posed a challenge for the Malayan British Military Administration (BMA) due to the guerrilla tactics employed by the enemy, who had received training from Force 136 during World War II. [note 1] The existing military and police forces in Malaya, being versed in conventional warfare, struggled to make headway against the communist armed forces. [8]

To address this issue, the BMA formed a unit known as the Ferret Force, comprising former Force 136 agents and local volunteers from the military and police forces. Colonel John Davis led this unit. As the situation continued to deteriorate, General Sir John Harding, the commander-in-chief of the Far East Land Forces, enlisted the expertise of Major Mike "Mad Mike" Calvert. Major Calvert, a former Chindits and Force 136 agent with experience in Burma, was tasked with assessing the situation in Malaya. [9]

In 1950, Major Calvert established a special forces unit called the Malayan Scouts. Subsequently, Ferret Force was reorganised and became A Squadron, Malayan Scouts. The Malayan Scouts underwent another transformation in 1958 when they were renamed the 22 Special Air Service. [9]

Malaysian Special Service Unit

During his tenure as the Minister of Defence, Abdul Razak, Malaysia's 2nd Prime Minister, suggested the formation of a special operations unit. Force 136, which trained him as a guerrilla resistance fighter during World War II, had him serve as a spy for the British within the Japanese-occupied Malaya government. Abdul Razak Hussein 1961 (cropped).jpg
During his tenure as the Minister of Defence, Abdul Razak, Malaysia's 2nd Prime Minister, suggested the formation of a special operations unit. Force 136, which trained him as a guerrilla resistance fighter during World War II, had him serve as a spy for the British within the Japanese-occupied Malaya government.

The Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation began in 1963 when Indonesia, then under a pro-communist government, attacked Malaysia. [note 2] [10] At that time, Malaysia, having recently formed, had a small military force and relied on military assistance from the Commonwealth Nations. In early 1965, Abdul Razak Hussein, the Minister of Defence at the time, instructed the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to establish an experimental special forces unit by recruiting members from various branches within the MAF. General Tunku Osman, the Chief of Defence Forces at that time and a former Force 136 agent, desired that the task force be trained as commandos, similar to his own experiences during World War II. [note 3] Seeking assistance, the Malaysian Armed Forces approached 40 Commando, based in Singapore at the time, to conduct the selection process and provide training for the task force. Initially named the Malaysian Special Service Unit, it later became known as Gerak Khas in Malay. [3] [7] [11] [12] [13]

Police's special operations task force

Special forces operators from units under the RMP Special Operations Command during the 56th Merdeka Day. Those on the left, donning sand-coloured berets, are operators from VAT 69 Commando, while those on the right, with Bordeaux maroon berets, are operators from the Special Action Unit. RMP UTK Officers 56th NDP.JPG
Special forces operators from units under the RMP Special Operations Command during the 56th Merdeka Day. Those on the left, donning sand-coloured berets, are operators from VAT 69 Commando, while those on the right, with Bordeaux maroon berets, are operators from the Special Action Unit.

The Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation officially ended in 1966, but Malaysia faced a second communist armed conflict that began in 1968. On 13 May 1969, racial riots erupted in major cities in Malaysia, resulting in several casualties. In response to the incident's racial tensions, the Special Branch, the police intelligence unit, collaborated with the Malaysian Special Service Unit to apprehend leaders of gangsters and triads who played a role behind the scenes. [13]

Recognising the need for special forces within the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP), the RMP established a special forces task force in 1969, with the first selection process taking place in October of that year. The task force went by various names, such as Task Force, Charlie Force, and Special Project Team. Over time, the task force evolved into a permanent police unit and officially adopted the name Pasukan Polis Hutan 69, translated as Police Field Force 69, or Jungle Squad 69 in English. It was placed under the Police Field Force, now known as the General Operations Force. Presently, the squad is known as 69 Commando, or VAT 69 for short. [14]

Malaysian SWAT

In response to the growing presence of communism, the emergence of gangster groups, and triads in major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, during the 1970s, the RMP establishing a police tactical unit on 1 January 1975. This unit, named the Special Actions Unit, underwent specialised training to carry out counterterrorism operations, covert missions, and to serve as an assault team for the RMP in urban areas. To enhance their capabilities, counterterrorism instructors from the 22 Special Air Service were brought to Malaysia to train the Special Actions Unit in counterterrorism tactics, building raids, and sniper operations. On 20 October 1997, the RMP amalgamated the VAT 69 Commando and the Special Actions Unit, establishing a unified special operations command. Consequently, these two units are recognised as the true special forces within the RMP. [note 4] [15] [16]

Special Warfare Training Centre

Due to the ongoing armed conflict with communists, which showed no signs of near resolution, and with the aim of saving costs associated with sending military personnel overseas for special operations training, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) established the Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC) on 1 August 1976, at Sungai Udang Camp in Malacca. The training centre was placed under the management of the Malaysian Army. During this period, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) still lacked their own special forces. Officers, sailors, or airmen from these branches could volunteer for Gerak Khas selection to become a special forces soldier, commonly referred to today as an 'operator'. Even after the RMN and RMAF established their own special forces in 1977 and 1980, the SWTC remained the sole commando school conducting special forces selection for the entire MAF. [3]

Commando schools

An Iban tracker from the Sarawak Rangers during the Malayan Emergency. It's noteworthy that he is wearing the green beret of the Royal Marines, indicating his qualification as a commando. Malayan Emergency Iban headhunter.jpg
An Iban tracker from the Sarawak Rangers during the Malayan Emergency. It's noteworthy that he is wearing the green beret of the Royal Marines, indicating his qualification as a commando.

The term Commando School is used for training centres that offer selection courses, officially known as Basic Commando Courses (Malay : Kursus Asas Komando), for Special Forces in Malaysia. The term 'Commando' in Malaysia is used to signify the ability of a unit or individual trained in small unit tactics, guerrilla warfare, and jungle warfare mastery. Although in the present day, the term 'Commando' is highly associated with special forces units in Malaysia, the status of 'commando' was not exclusive to special forces in the past. [8] [17]

For example, during the Malayan Emergency, the British conferred the status of 'Commando' upon the Senoi Praqq, a manhunt and tracker unit that functioned as an auxiliary team for the Special Air Service, and the Sarawak Rangers, a manhunt and tracker unit embedded with the Royal Marines Commando. Likewise, in 1972, amid the Communist insurgency in Malaysia (1968–1989), the Malaysian government granted the 'Commando' status to the Tiger Platoon of the 9 RAMD, a long-range reconnaissance patrol. [17] [18]

The four commando schools are:

Special Warfare Training Centre

The Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC), located at Sungai Udang Camp in Malacca, is the oldest special operations training centre in Malaysia. Established on 1 August 1976, as the Malaysian Armed Forces Special Warfare Training Centre (Malay: Pusat Latihan Peperangan Khas Angkatan Tentera Malaysia), this school operates under the administration of the Malaysian Army Training and Doctrine Command. One of the objectives of the establishment of SWTC is to conduct Basic Commando Courses, taking over from the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment, so they can focus on functioning as a combat unit. [3] [19]

In the past, the Basic Commando Course at the SWTC served as the primary special forces selection for all branches of the Malaysian Armed Forces. However, in 1985, the Royal Malaysian Navy initiated its own Special Forces Selection at Lumut Naval Base, leading to SWTC undergoing a transformation and changing its name to the Malaysian Army Special Warfare Training Centre. [3] [19]

RMAF Combat Training School

Established on 1 March 2018, the RMAF Combat Training School, or Sekolah Latihan Tempur TUDM in Malay, is located at RMAF Bukit Ibam Air Base in Pahang. Operating under the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), the school has offered the Basic Commando Course since its inception. Before the school's establishment, the RMAF conducted its own Basic Commando Course since the late 1993 at various locations, including the Air Force Academy, RMAF Jugra Air Base in Selangor, and RMAF Kuantan Air Base in Pahang. [5]

KD Panglima Garang

Established on 1 October 2021, KD Panglima Garang is a Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) shore establishment located inside RMN Lumut Naval Base in Perak. Also known as the Naval Special Forces Training Centre, it boasts various facilities, including a mock oil platform for Naval Special Forces (PASKAL) training. Despite the recent establishment of the RMN's special operations training centre, RMN has conducted its own Basic Commando Course since 1985 at RMN Lumut Naval Base, sharing training facilities with other RMN units. [20]

Pusat Latihan Unit Komando 69 Pasukan Gerak Khas

The Pusat Latihan Unit Komando 69 Pasukan Gerak Khas (lit. Training Centre for the 69 Commando Unit, Special Operations Force) is a special forces training centre that belongs to the Royal Malaysian Police, currently under construction. Situated inside the Sultan Nazrin Shah 69 Commando Camp (VAT 69 Commando's Headquarters) at Hulu Kinta in Perak, it marks a shift from VAT 69 Commando's previous headquarters at the General Operations Force's (GOF) Northern Brigade's garrison. Since 1978, VAT 69 Commando has been conducting its Basic Commando Course at the GOF Northern Brigade in Hulu Kinta and the Commando 69 Outdoor Training Camp Headquarters (Malay : Markas Kem Latihan Luar Komando 69) in Terong, Perak. [21] [22]

Other special forces training centre

Operating primarily in urban environments, the Special Actions Unit is distinct from commando units. Consequently, its special forces selection process differs from that of other special forces units in Malaysia. [23]

Special Actions Unit Training Centre

The Pusat Latihan Unit Tindakhas, or Special Actions Unit Training Centre in English, is a special forces training centre under the Royal Malaysian Police and is currently in the construction phase. It is located inside the 4th Battalion of the General Operations Force's garrison at Semenyih in Selangor. Since its formation in 1975, the Special Actions Unit has relied on various locations for its selection process, including the GOF Northern Brigade, the 6th Battalion GOF camp in Bakri, Muar, PULAPOL facilities, and Bukit Aman. [24]

Special forces selection (Commando)

Commandos from four different units during the 65th Merdeka Day: from left, a commando from PASKAL, a commando from 21 SSG, a commando from VAT 69, and a commando from PASKAU. 65th Merdeka Day 2022 Picture 15.jpg
Commandos from four different units during the 65th Merdeka Day: from left, a commando from PASKAL, a commando from 21 SSG, a commando from VAT 69, and a commando from PASKAU.

Aspiring individuals must follow this pipeline to serve in the following units, all conducted at Commando schools:

Pipelines comparison

Comparison of the Special Forces (Commando) Training Pipelines
21 SSGPASKALPASKAUVAT 69STAR91 IOGJMF Elite Forces
Preparation/

Initial training

Preparatory course (4 weeks)Preparatory course (4 weeks)Preparatory course (4 weeks)Not applicablePreparatory course (4 weeks)Preparatory course (4 weeks)Preparatory course (4 weeks)
IntroductionNot applicablePre-Basic Commando Course (2 weeks)Not applicablePre-Basic Commando Course (2 weeks)Pre-Basic Commando Course (2 weeks)Not applicableNot applicable
Water Competency CourseWater Competency Training (4 weeks)Not applicableWater Competency Training (4 weeks)
Basic Commando Course [note 7] Phase 1: Camp (5 weeks)Phase 1: Camp (5 weeks)Module 1: Camp (5 weeks)Phase 1: Camp, jungle, swamp and seaPhase 1: Camp (5 weeks)Phase 1: Camp (5 weeks)Phase 1: Camp (5 weeks)
Phase 2:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Phase 2:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Module 2: Long Distance March (3 days)Phase 2:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Phase 2:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Phase 2:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Phase 3: Swamp & Long Distance March (10 days)Phase 3: Swamp & Long Distance March (10 days)Module 3:

Jungle (2 weeks)

Phase 2: Small unit patrol and weapon trainingPhase 3: Swamp & Long Distance March (10 days)Phase 3: Swamp & Long Distance March (10 days)Phase 3: Swamp & Long Distance March (10 days)
Phase 4: Sea (2 weeks)Phase 4: Sea (2 weeks)Module 4: SeaPhase 4: Sea (2 weeks)Phase 4: Sea (2 weeks)Phase 4: Sea (2 weeks)
Module 5: Dark WaterPhase 3: Practical & Evaluation
Phase 5: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)Phase 5: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)Module 6: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)Phase 5: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)Phase 5: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)Phase 5: Escape and Evasion (2 weeks)
Compulsory advanced trainingNot applicableNot applicableNot applicableNot applicableSpecial Task Introduction Course (6 weeks)Not applicableSpecial Forces Specialist Course
Continuation training

Preparatory course

This course is known by various names, including 'Warm-up for the Basic Commando Course (Malay : Pemanasan Kursus Asas Komando)', 'STAR Pre-Basic Commando Course (Malay : Kursus Pra Asas Komando STAR)', 'PASKAL Warm-up Stage (Malay : Peringkat Pemanasan PASKAL)', and several others. Regardless of its name, this four-week course aims to physically and mentally prepare candidates for upcoming phases in their special forces pipeline. It maintains a less strict atmosphere, occasionally allowing candidates permission to leave the camp on weekends. [25]

Throughout this course, candidates are instructed on optimal techniques for physical training to minimise the risk of injuries during the basic commando course. They also receive training in swimming fundamentals, and a crucial component is the requirement to pass a physical test at the course's conclusion. Examples of the final tests include: [26] [27]

Pre-Basic Commando Course

The objective of this two-week phase is to familiarise sailors, whether from the navy or coast guard, as well as policemen, with infantry skills, small unit tactics and jungle warfare. This is crucial because, unlike the Malaysian Army or Royal Malaysian Air Force, which recruits potential commandos from infantry and air force infantry units, the navy, coast guard, and police do not undergo similar training. For instance, naval and coast guard officers and sailors have their own distinctive naval ratings when in their original units. Similarly, policemen primarily focus on law enforcement duties in their original units. In this course, they receive a crash course on what to expect if they become special forces operators. [28] When compared to the United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, this course is equivalent to the SAS Infantry Skills Course, which is optional only for candidates not from infantry units. [29]

Water Competency Training

Designed specifically for special forces involved in maritime operations, this rigorous four-week programme focuses on physical conditioning and water competency testing. Similar to the requirements for U.S. Navy SEALs and SWCC candidates, successful completion is mandatory. [30] This programme is not exclusive to special forces; candidates from other maritime specialised units, such as Navy Clearance Divers and Coast Guard Rescue Divers, also participate alongside them. [31] In the final week, they need to pass the following tests: [26]

Basic Commando Course (Military)

The Malaysian Armed Forces conduct the Basic Commando Course, known as Kursus Asas Komando in Malay, over 12 weeks, making it the most challenging course. The course runs for 12 consecutive weeks without any rest days between phases. On average, candidates get approximately 3 hours of sleep per night from the beginning to the end of the course. [26]

Despite its name incorporating the term 'Commando', this course is comparable to the condensed version of the pre-2000 United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, which lasted 15 weeks. The term 'Commando' originates from the World War II British Commando. This course differs from the post-2003 United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, where the updated programme extends to 26 weeks after the inclusion of various special operations techniques. [note 8] [29] [32]

40 Commando supervised the Basic Commando Course in 1965, which initially spanned 12 weeks before extending to 24 weeks, following the establishment of the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment (now known as the 21st Commando Regiment) in 1970. However, in the 1980s, the course was streamlined back to its current 12-week duration. All special forces, except those from the Royal Malaysian Police, attend the course at all commando schools within the Malaysian Armed Forces. [7] [33]

While all courses generally follow the same curriculum and phases, the Royal Malaysian Air Force Basic Commando Course differs in its designation of phases as modules. Additionally, they separate the sea phase into the 'Sea Module' and the 'Dark Water Module'. The phases include: [26] [34]

Camp Phase (5 weeks)

Organised over five weeks, this phase stands as the crucial level for testing and enhancing candidates' physical and mental resilience. Candidates undergo constant physical endurance and exercise, engaging in theories and practical applications of weapon handling, explosives handling, tactics and stratagem implementation, field medical procedures, rappelling and abseiling, as well as honing map-reading skills. At the end of each week, candidates are required to undergo several series of loaded marches, with distances progressively increasing from 4.8 kilometres (3.0 mi), 8 kilometres (5.0 mi), 11.2 kilometres (7.0 mi), 14 kilometres (8.7 mi), and 16 kilometres (9.9 mi). [26] [34]

If they fail to reach the end under the specified time limits, the instructors withdraw them from the Basic Commando Course. [26] [34]

Jungle Phase (2 weeks)

This two-week jungle training is a favourite among the candidates. It provides exposure to practical training and field skills, including guarding and patrolling, establishing bases, survival techniques, and small unit tactics (section/troop) combat. For instance, candidates learn about poisonous and edible plants, trap-setting, and identifying drinkable water sources from plants. [26] [34]

Swamp Phase and Long Range March (10 days)

During this phase, all candidates endure a challenging combat-loaded march carrying a 17 kilograms (37 lb) load, aiming to reach the target 160 kilometres (99 mi) away within three days. Those who succeed in this march proceed to spend seven days in a swampy area without access to food supplies or proper clothing. They are provided only with their underwear and rifle, and they are required to share a machete. This phase serves as a practical application of all survival lessons taught in previous phases. [26] [34]

Sea Phase (2 weeks)

The sea training spans two weeks, during which candidates engage in practical exercises involving small craft marine navigation, long-range silent rowing, and beach raids using rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RIB), rigid raider craft, and kayaks. Upon completion of the training, they undertake a 160 kilometres (99 mi) journey along the Straits of Malacca using rigid raider craft, conducted under the cover of night to simulate infiltration into the objective area by sea. [26] [34]

For the Royal Malaysian Air Force Basic Commando Course, this phase is split into two modules known as the 'Sea Module' and the 'Dark Water Module'. [26] [34]

Escape and Evasion Phase (2 weeks)

This phase exposes candidates to real special forces operations, requiring them to apply all they have learned and endured in the previous phases. Candidates are deployed in groups, tasked with infiltrating 100 kilometres (62 mi) into the operation area by rowing RIB. In the operation area, candidates must locate and identify the enemy and their assets before planning, organising, and launching a raid in the enemy's territory. Once they achieve their objective, they need to escape and report to several agents at designated checkpoints. They must know how to contact their agents and evade instructors acting as enemies who control that area. If caught, candidates will be tortured and abused. Captured candidates will be marked and released to continue their journey until they reach the last checkpoint. Candidates can be caught more than once. The total distance candidates cover during their escape is almost 240 kilometres (150 mi), and they must cover this distance within 5 days. [26] [34]

Basic Commando Course (Royal Malaysian Police)

Known as Kursus Asas Komando 69 in Malay or Basic 69 Commando Course in English, this course spans 20 weeks. It is conducted twice a year and currently takes place at the General Operations Force's (GOF) Northern Brigade's garrison and the Commando 69 Outdoor Training Camp Headquarters while awaiting the completion of the Pusat Latihan Unit Komando 69 Pasukan Gerak Khas. [35]

Originally, VAT 69 candidates underwent a similar Basic Commando Course as the military, lasting for 12 weeks. However, due to a low number of police personnel passing the course, in January 2019, the then-Commander of VAT 69, SAC Abdul Razak Mohd Yusoff SP , aimed to adjust VAT 69's selection program to be less rigorous without compromising special forces standards. This adjustment aimed to allow for more graduates to fill the larger spots left by retired and departing commandos. [35]

According to Abdul Razak, as mentioned in an interview with Utusan Malaysia, at that time, the lowest number of policemen graduating from the basic commando course was only 9 graduates from hundreds of initial applications, while they needed to fill around 80 spots every year left by retired and departing commandos. [35] To address this issue, VAT 69 restructured their selection process, incorporating additional special operations skills such as small unit tactics, special operations marksmanship, and demolition techniques. As a result, their Basic Commando Course, starting in July 2019, was extended to 20 weeks. [36] Since the adjustment to the selection process in 2019, the number of graduates from the Basic 69 Commando Course has approached 30. [37] [38]

The Royal Malaysian Police implemented the following new components for the Basic Commando Course: [39]

First Phase

During the initial phase, candidates undergo training in four distinct environments. The first part takes place at the camp within the General Operations Force's (GOF) Northern Brigade's garrison. Here, candidates delve into theoretical aspects related to special operations, including map reading, infiltration, and survival techniques. Subsequently, candidates transition to the jungle environment before proceeding to the swamp area and sea. [39]

Second Phase

In the second phase, candidates receive instruction on operating as small units. They must master jungle warfare, guerrilla warfare, weaponry, explosives, manhunt, communication, and field medical skills. Additionally, candidates learn how to create booby traps, handle explosives, and employ various demolition techniques. [39]

Third Phase

The final phase, known as the Final Mission Execution phase, subjects candidates to comprehensive testing across all the skills and lessons acquired in the preceding phases. This phase is similar to the Escape and Evasion Phase from the Military Basic Commando Course. [39]

Special forces selection (Special Actions Unit)

The Special Actions Unit's selection process is similar to that of other special forces in Malaysia. Candidates must undergo a preparatory course and a main selection course before being bestowed with the Bordeaux-coloured beret. [note 9] Although the Special Actions Unit received training from the British Special Air Services during its establishment in 1975, it is the only Special Forces unit in Malaysia not considered to have 'Commando' status due to their focus on urban operations rather than jungle environments like other special forces. [40]

The main selection course for the Special Actions Unit, officially known as Kursus Asas UTK in Malay and Basic Special Actions Unit Course in English, lasts for 13 weeks and is divided into three stages: [41] [42]

First stage

The first stage, also known as the camp phase, is conducted at the Malaysian Police Training Centre. Candidates undergo rigorous physical exercises while simultaneously learning theory about weapon handling and marksmanship, basic rope training, basic first aid, unarmed combat, and basic close-quarters combat. [41] [42]

Second stage

The second stage, also known as the Jungle Phase, typically takes place at the 6th Battalion of the General Operations Force's garrison located in Bakri, Johor. Candidates engage in challenging physical exercises while learning jungle survival theory before implementing the practical aspects in nearby jungles. Despite the Special Actions Unit's specialisation not being in jungle warfare, candidates must understand how to operate in jungle environments, as they may need to conduct raids on locations situated at the jungle's edge near major cities. [41] [42]

Third stage

In this final stage, conducted at Bukit Aman in Kuala Lumpur, candidates undergo strenuous physical exercises while receiving extensive training on raiding and body guarding. They are taught theory on raiding cars, buildings, buses, trains, and aeroplanes in classes before executing the raid exercises at locations such as Malayan Railways' locomotive depot, and Kuala Lumpur International Airport. [41] [42]

Graduation

Upon completing the Basic Commando Course or the Basic Special Actions Unit Course, candidates need to undergo one last task in front of VIPs, instructors, visitors, and the friends and family of the candidates before the graduation ceremony. The nature of the task varies depending on the commando school they attend. They then proceed to the graduation ceremony, where they will be awarded a beret based on the school they attended. Additionally, they may receive a lanyard and a combat knife. For the Coast Guard Special Task and Rescue (STAR) and JMF Elite Forces, there are two graduation ceremonies—one after completing the Basic Commando Course at any school and another after completing their Compulsory Advanced Training. Below are the final tasks they need to perform and the berets they will receive: [43] [44] [45] [46]

SchoolServicesFinal TaskBeretCombat knifeLanyardInsignia
Special Warfare Training Centre Flag of the Malaysian Army.svg  Malaysian Army Amphibious beach raid  Sherwood green Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife Light blueNo
Pusat Latihan Unit Komando 69 Pasukan Gerak Khas Royal Malaysia Police Jungle raid  Sand Glock knife NoNo
Special Actions Unit Training Centre Royal Malaysia Police No  Bordeaux NoNoNo
KD Panglima Garang Naval Ensign of Malaysia.svg  Royal Malaysian Navy Amphibious beach raid  Magenta Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife Dark blueYes
RMAF Combat Training School Royal Malaysian Air Force Flag.svg  Royal Malaysian Air Force Heliborne beach raid  Sky blue Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife Light blueYes

Compulsory advanced training

This additional course is mandatory for special forces before officially completing the selection process. Currently, only the Coast Guard Special Task and Rescue (STAR) and JMF Elite Forces have compulsory advanced training. Both of these mandatory advanced training programmes are conducted after their graduation from Commando School. For the Coast Guard STAR, the attainment of the scarlet red beret and STAR Insignia is contingent upon successfully completing this course. Similarly, for JMF Elite Forces, the completion of this training earns them the Special Operations Insignia. [47]

Continuation training

After graduating, individuals still need to attend various special operations courses before being granted operational status. Importantly, these courses are not conducted consecutively, and graduates have resting periods between them. Depending on the availability of class slots, the fastest time to complete all courses, from the beginning of their Basic Commando Course or Basic Special Actions Unit Course until receiving operational status, is two years. [28]

Notes

  1. ↑ The communist guerrillas collaborated with the United Kingdom during World War II. Force 136 agents were sent to train the guerrillas in guerrilla warfare. Alongside other resistance groups, including the communist guerrillas, Force 136 fought against and sabotaged the Japanese Imperial Army in Malaya throughout the war.
  2. ↑ The president of Indonesia during that period was Sukarno, a leftist and follower of Marxism. His government enjoyed support from the Communist Party of Indonesia, and he sought to unify the Nationalist, Religious, and Communist factions into one entity, proposing the concept of NASAKOM, an abbreviation for the Indonesian words "Nasionalis Agama Komunis". Sukarno initiated an anti-Malaysia campaign called "Ganyang Malaysia" and deployed military forces with the aim of conquering Malaysia.
  3. ↑ During World War II, British commandos differed significantly from today's British commandos affiliated with the Royal Marines Commando and the 3 Commando Brigade. Current commandos primarily serve as light infantry units. It's only with the recent establishment of the Future Commando Force that Royal Marines commandos have been retrained to function as special operations-capable units. In contrast, the World War II British commandos constituted a special forces unit, incorporating elite groups like the Special Air Service (SAS), the Special Boat Service (SBS), the Special Operations Executive (SOE), and others.
  4. ↑ Other police tactical units exist within the RMP besides these two. For example, UNGERIN, the marine police tactical unit of the Marine Operations Force. However, only the Special Actions Unit and 69 Commando are under the RMP's special operations command.
  5. ↑ The Malaysian Coast Guard's Special Task and Rescue Team consists of two components: Special Operations and Rescue Swimmer. Only those in special operations are required to undergo special forces selection.
  6. ↑ The 91 IOG is not part of the 21st Special Service Group, the Special Operations Command for the Malaysian Army. Instead, it serves as the special forces for the Royal Intelligence Corps, and its members undergo training at Commando School, similar to other special forces units.
  7. ↑ All basic commando courses last for 12 weeks, except for VAT 69's basic commando course, which extends to 20 weeks.
  8. ↑ Special operations skills cover various courses such as surveillance and reconnaissance, survival, parachutist training, counter terrorism, signals, and weapon training.
  9. ↑ The Special Actions Unit's beret is in a Bordeaux shade of maroon. This colour is chosen to reflect their roots with the British Air Service, which used a maroon beret during the Malayan Emergency, combined with the blue colour of the police.

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Gerak Khas (GK), or Grup Gerak Khas, (GGK) also spelled Gerakhas, is a Malaysian Army special forces (MASF) unit that performs special operations missions such as direct action, unconventional warfare, sabotage, counter-terrorism, and intelligence gathering. Gerak Khas was founded in 1965 during the Indonesia-Malaysia conflict, and they gained worldwide fame and recognition after successfully pacifying the communist insurgency in Malaysia's jungles between 1968 and 1989.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">RMAF Special Forces</span> Special forces of the Royal Malaysian Air Force

The RMAF Special Forces, better known as PASKAU, is the special forces of the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

The General Operations Force is the light infantry arm of the Royal Malaysia Police. The General Operations Force was established in 1948 during the Malayan Emergency by the British Administration when Malaya was a colony. The police service was mobilised to the field role, primarily to engaging Communist guerrillas during the emerging Insurgency. When Malaysia was formed in 1963, this law enforcement unit was then known as the Police Field Force. The title was adopted when it dropped the previous handle widely referred to as the Jungle Squad.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Special Task and Rescue</span> Malaysian Coast Guards Special Operations Command

The Special Task and Rescue Team, abbreviated as STAR, serves as the command for elite maritime special operations and underwater divers within the Malaysia Coast Guard. It was established as a rapid reaction force for emergencies within the maritime zone of Malaysia.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">JMF Elite Forces</span> Military unit

The JMF Elite Forces is the only tier one special forces unit in Malaysia placed under the responsibility of the Royal Johor Military Force (JMF) with amphibious reconnaissance, black operation, counterterrorism and hostage rescue crisis management, naval boarding, respond quickly in emergency situations, support search and rescue in hazardous environments, special warfare in any incidents involving the state of Johor, and the mandate of providing security and protection to the Royal Family of Johor.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Abdul Razak Mohd Yusof</span> Malaysian police officer (born 1963)

DCP Dato' Abdul Razak bin Mohd Yusof is a former senior police officer, martial artist and one of the national heroes from the Royal Malaysia Police 69 Commando of the Pasukan Gerakan Khas. He is a recipient of the Grand Knight of Valour (S.P.) award, the highest federal award of Malaysia.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">PASKAL</span> Special operations force of the Royal Malaysian Navy

The Pasukan Khas Laut, commonly abbreviated to PASKAL, is the principal special operations force of the Royal Malaysian Navy.

The National Special Operations Force (NSOF) has been Malaysia's main security force which serves as the first responder to any terror threats on the country's sovereignty after October 2016. The force covers elements from the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Special Warfare Training Centre (Malaysia)</span> A specialised military school for special operations located in Malaysia

The Special Warfare Training Centre is a Malaysian Army training centre located at the Sungai Udang Camp in Malacca. Its primary purpose is to conduct special forces selection and to provide specialised courses and training for personnel from the 21st Special Service Group, 10th Parachute Brigade, and other elite units of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to strengthen Malaysia's defensive garrison against enemies and terrorists.

The 69 Commando ; also known as Very Able Troopers 69 is an elite multi-tasking special forces unit of the Royal Malaysia Police. The VAT 69 is based at Ulu Kinta, Perak and together with Special Actions Unit, they are part of Pasukan Gerakan Khas. The mission of 69 Commando is to conduct high-risk tasks such as counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, intelligence gathering and counter-insurgency within the borders of Malaysia.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Special Actions Unit (Malaysia)</span> Malaysian tactical unit

The Special Actions Unit, commonly known as and abbreviated to UTK, is a tactical unit of the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP). The unit is headquartered at the RMP buildings in Bukit Aman, Kuala Lumpur. Together with the 69 Commando, they form the Pasukan Gerakan Khas.

The Special Forces and Elite Forces include both a specially and higher trained unit and a small percentage of personnel from a specific Malaysian military branch, law enforcement or government agency. In Malaysia, the term 'Special Forces' is widely used by uniformed services for special forces, special operations forces and 'special' trained units while 'Elite Forces' for units that more trained and capable combat. Regular personnel must undertake specialized and higher training to be able to join the units of the 'Special and Elite Forces'. These "Special Elite Forces" are denoted by different beret colours, shoulder tabs, unit patches, skill badges and uniforms.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">21st Special Service Group</span> Malaysian Army special operations command

The 21st Special Service Group, also known as the Grup Gerak Khas and the 21st Special Forces Group, serves as the command for the Malaysian Army's special forces, the Gerak Khas. 21 SSG is a fighting formation within the Malaysian Army. This unit operate independently under the Malaysian Army and directly report to the Chief of Army. The headquarters of the 21 SSG are located at Sri Iskandar Camp in Mersing, Johor.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team of Malaysia</span> Specialised firefighters in Malaysias Fire and Rescue Department

The STORM is a specialised firefighter unit within the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia. They are one of the special rescue team of the department and also a component of the Rapid Deployment Forces.

The Basic Rapid Deployment Force Course is a four-week course conducted by the Malaysian Army as part of the pipeline for officers and soldiers who wish to join the Malaysian Rapid Deployment Force and the 10th Parachute Brigade. This course represents the final phase of a three-part series, following the preparatory course and the basic parachutist course. Typically held at Terendak Camp, Malacca, it concludes at Dataran Parawood, with the exception of 2021, when it concludes at the Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge. Following the elevation of the 10th Parachute Brigade's status as a hybrid airborne-marine unit in 2022 during the 89th Army Day, the course now concludes at the beach of Besar Island in Malacca.

The Royal Malaysian Air Force Ground Defence Force, previously known as the Royal Malaysian Air Force Air and Ground Defence Force, is an infantry unit of the Royal Malaysian Air Force. This unit is better known by its abbreviation from its Malay name, HANDAU. It is one of three ground combat units within the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) and has been part of the RMAF Regiment since the regiment's inception. In addition to their role as light infantry, their responsibilities include providing security forces and serving as air assault infantry.

References

  1. ↑ Mohamad Azim Fitri, Abd Aziz (2019-04-30). "Selamat datang komando". Harian Metro (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-24.
  2. ↑ YUSOF, NORAWAZNI (2019-10-19). "Allahyarham tak sempat tamatkan latihan Paskal". Sinar Harian (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-24.
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 Abd Rahman, Shamsul Afkar (June 2013). "History of Special Operations Forces in Malaysia". Naval Postgraduate School (Master's thesis). Monterey, CA.
  4. 1 2 "PENUTUPAN KURSUS ASAS KOMANDO SIRI AK/1/2023". army.mil.my (in Malay). 2023-08-19. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
  5. 1 2 "30 PENUNTUT KURSUS KOMANDO TUDM SIRI 28/21 MENERIMA PENGANUGERAHAN BERET BIRU PASUKAN KHAS TUDM (PASKAU)". airforce.mil.my (in Malay). 2021-09-08. Retrieved 2023-11-22.
  6. ↑ Bayly, Christopher; Harper, Tim (4 August 2005). Forgotten Armies. Penguin. ISBN   0-14-029331-0.
  7. 1 2 3 4 "Gerak Khas – Lahir dari ilham Tun Razak". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). 2003-08-09.
  8. 1 2 Opper, Marc (2020), "The Malayan Emergency, 1948–1960", People's Wars in China, Malaya, and Vietnam, University of Michigan Press, pp. 173–204, doi:10.3998/mpub.11413902, ISBN   978-0-472-13184-6, JSTOR   10.3998/mpub.11413902 , retrieved 2023-11-24
  9. 1 2 Leary, John D. (1995). "Searching for a Role: The Special Air Service (sas) Regiment in the Malayan Emergency". Journal of the Society for Army Historical Research. 73 (296): 251–269. ISSN   0037-9700. JSTOR   44230003.
  10. ↑ Hindley, Donald (1962). "President Sukarno and the Communists: The Politics of Domestication". The American Political Science Review. 56 (4): 915–926. doi:10.2307/1952793. ISSN   0003-0554. JSTOR   1952793.
  11. ↑ Jeshurun, Chandran (1994). "MALAYSIAN DEFENCE POLICY REVISITED: Modernization and Rationalization in the Post—Cold War Era". Southeast Asian Affairs: 194–206. ISSN   0377-5437. JSTOR   27912102.
  12. ↑ Hindley, Donald (1964). "Indonesia's Confrontation with Malaysia: A Search for Motives". Asian Survey. 4 (6): 904–913. doi:10.2307/3023528. ISSN   0004-4687. JSTOR   3023528.
  13. 1 2 Wan Chik, Ahmad Ridzuan (2011). Rejimen Gerak Khas: Pasukan Khusus Tentera Darat Malaysia (in Malay). Utusan Publications & Distributors. ISBN   978-9-67612-522-4.
  14. ↑ A. Navaratnam (2001). The Spear and the Kerambit: The Exploits of VAT 69, Malaysia's Elite Fighting Force, 1968–1989. Utusan Publications & Distributors. ISBN   967-61-1196-1.
  15. ↑ Hussain, Ahmad Atory (2001). Pengantar pentadbiran awam: paradigma baru (in Malay). Utusan Publications & Distributors. p. 323. ISBN   9789676112415.
  16. ↑ Arif, Zahratulhayat Mat (2018-10-28). "Cadangan tak sesuai". Harian Metro (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  17. 1 2 Bennett, Gordon (2004). "Review of Death Waits in the "Dark": The Senoi Praaq, Malaysia's Killer Elite". Armed Forces & Society. 30 (2): 319–321. ISSN   0095-327X. JSTOR   48608638.
  18. ↑ "Sumbangan pasukan". 9 RAMD Para (in Malay). 2017. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
  19. 1 2 "'Kilang' Lahirkan Pasukan Elit". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). 2013-07-13.
  20. ↑ "KD Panglima Garang, Pusat Latihan PASKAL Yang Lengkap". Defence Security Asia (in Malay). 2021-10-01. Retrieved 2023-11-22.
  21. ↑ "PM Anwar Saksi Penyerahan Kem Sultan Nazrin Shah 69 Komando". Bernama . 2024-05-04. Retrieved 2024-05-05.
  22. ↑ Seksyen P&P (2023-01-19). "LAWATAN PEMANTAUAN PROJEK PEMBINAAN PEJABAT DAN PUSAT LATIHAN UNIT KOMANDO 69 PASUKAN GERAK KHAS". icu.gov.my (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-22.
  23. ↑ Ying, Teoh Pei (2018-08-17). "'Itu latihan normal nak jadi UTK'". Harian Metro. Retrieved 2023-11-22.
  24. ↑ Saiful Haizan Hasam (2022-01-10). "UTK miliki pusat latihan sendiri selepas 47 tahun". BH Online (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-22.
  25. ↑ Sidek, Namri (2023-03-02). "Peringkat Latihan Komando Yang Membuatkan Mereka Luar Biasa". iluminasi (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-25.
  26. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Shuib, Faridah (2011-05-25). "Komando Maritim Sedia Hadapi Kemungkinan". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay).
  27. ↑ Md Denin, Mohd Jamilul Anbia (2021-09-04). "Terjun laut kaki, tangan diikat". Harian Metro (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-11-25.
  28. 1 2 VAT69 KOMANDO: SELAGI BERNAFAS (in Malay), SinarChannel, 2023-11-27, retrieved 2023-11-28
  29. 1 2 "UK Special Forces Selection". Boot Camp & Military Fitness Institute. 2014-07-23. Retrieved 2023-11-26.
  30. ↑ Khairi, Muhamad Lokman (2024-02-06). "Hanya 17 daripada 87 pelatih diterima sebagai PASKAL". Berita Harian (in Malay). Retrieved 2024-05-05.
  31. ↑ WAHAB, DIANA SURYA ABD (2023-10-05). "Maritim Malaysia lahirkan 15 penyelam penyelamat". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved 2024-05-05.
  32. ↑ Aliza Minai Rajab. "16/01/1973: KOMANDO RENJER ORANG ASLI DITUBUH". National Archives of Malaysia . Retrieved 2023-11-26.
  33. ↑ "Si Tora 12 Komando Pertama RGK". Berita Tentera Darat Malaysia. Retrieved 2023-11-26.
  34. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 "4 pegawai, 53 anggota TLDM tamat Kursus Asas Komando PASKAL". Air Times News Network (in Malay). 2018-11-17. Retrieved 2023-11-26.
  35. 1 2 3 BAKRI, MOHAMAD HAFIZ YUSOFF (2019-01-24). "[VIDEO]69 Komando mahu terus unggul". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  36. ↑ BERNAMA (2022-03-01). "Evolusi baharu 69 Komando". Harian Metro. Retrieved 2023-12-07.
  37. ↑ SALLEH, ZAKI (2021-10-29). "69 Komando perlu kuasai pelbagai kemahiran". Kosmo Digital (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-07.
  38. ↑ Mulia, Media (2020-09-23). "Kejayaan lalu tidak lekakan 69 Komando". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-07.
  39. 1 2 3 4 Sarifudin, Amir (2019-07-04). "Latihan kuasai pelbagai kaedah penyusupan". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-07.
  40. ↑ "JIWA SEJATI UTK". Harian Metro (in Malay). 2018-03-25. Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  41. 1 2 3 4 "41 PEGAWAI POLIS TAMAT KURSUS ASAS UTK". www.rmp.gov.my. Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  42. 1 2 3 4 Ying, Teoh Pei (2018-08-17). "'Itu latihan normal nak jadi UTK'". Harian Metro (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  43. ↑ ABAS, WAT KAMAL (2022-03-01). "29 berjaya tamatkan kursus asas 69 Komando". Utusan Malaysia (in Malay). Retrieved 2023-12-08.
  44. ↑ "MAJLIS PENUTUP KURSUS ASAS PASKAL SIRI 72/23". navy.mil.my (in Malay). 2023-07-08. Retrieved 2023-12-08.
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