Johor Regent: Don’t alter Regimen Gerak Khas plans approved by the King

Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail has warned all parties involved in the development of the Regimen Gerak Khas (RGK) not to deviate from the approved plans, which have received the King's consent. The RGK is under the Colonel Commandant of the Sultan Ibrahim's authority, and its development and execution demand trust and responsibility for national security and sovereignty.

Ismail emphasized that any changes should not be made for the benefit of certain parties who may seek to exploit well-planned developments. He used a cautionary saying, "harapkan pagar, pagar makan padi," to illustrate the risk of altering decisions made with the King's consent.

The Johor Regent also addressed concerns related to the Ministry of Defence and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), urging top leadership to prioritize the RGK's equipment, weaponry, mobility, technology, support systems, and operational assets. This is crucial as the security landscape in the Indo-Pacific, South China Sea, and global geopolitics has become increasingly complex and unpredictable.

Ismail stressed the need for the RGK to maintain the highest level of capabilities, quality, operational effectiveness, and value for money, particularly in light of the latest technology, cost-effectiveness, operational suitability, and long-term requirements. Furthermore, the welfare and career planning of personnel must be transparent and merit-based, with no room for vested interests or favoritism.

The Regent reminded all RGK personnel to uphold high skill levels, physical and mental resilience, integrity, and loyalty to the King and country, as outlined in the Commando Soldier’s Oath. RGK officers and personnel must remain at the highest state of readiness, as they are the "tip of the spear" in confronting threats to national security.