Govt to strengthen Rela through new skills training

 

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah being greeted at the 54th anniversary celebrations for Rela. BERNAMA pic

MELAKA: The government will continue to strengthen the role of the Malaysian Volunteer Corps (Rela) through various new skills training programmes, including systematic disaster management, professional first aid and a better understanding of digital security.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said this was in line with Rela's important role as one of the country's security agencies and a strategic national asset in helping safeguard the nation's security and peace.

"As Rela marks its 54th anniversary, the security challenges we face have changed significantly and we are no longer dealing solely with physical threats or guerrillas in the jungle as we did in 1972.

"Instead, today we face cyber threats, cross-border crimes, the spread of false information, community security issues and climate change that brings unforeseen disasters," he said.

He said this in his speech at Rela's 54th anniversary celebration and the Madani Warriors Carnival tour, which was also attended by Home Ministry deputy secretary-general (security) Datuk Abdul Halim Abdul Rahman and Rela director-general Datuk Rosli Yaakub here today.

Shamsul Anuar said that today, Rela stands as a modern department with a well-structured organisation, equipped with training, equipment and expertise comparable to those of other security agencies.

He said this evolution proves that Rela remains relevant and capable of adapting to current challenges, not only by assisting in community patrols and security at major events, but also by serving as an additional set of eyes and ears for the authorities.

He said Rela was proof that the spirit of volunteerism and patriotism remains strong among Malaysians, and the government guarantees that the welfare and needs of its personnel will continue to receive attention.

Earlier at the event, nearly 1,000 Rela personnel were honoured to commemorate the establishment of the corps and to recognise its members for their service and sacrifices in carrying out their duties to the nation.

At the ceremony, Shamsul Anuar also presented the Rela International Medal to Sarawak Rela operations officer S. Shanthi, as well as the Rela Service Medal to 20 personnel and the General Medal to five personnel. - NST