MAF reviewing allowances to boost reserve force participation, says Chief of Defence Force

Port Dickson, Oct 17 — The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) is contemplating adjusting allowances for volunteer reserve personnel in a bid to encourage more individuals to join and actively participate in training programs, according to Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman. The review, aimed at strengthening the reserve force's manpower pool, comes as the current hourly rates of RM9.80 and RM8, last reviewed around 2022, are deemed relatively low.

General Sulaiman explained that higher allowances would incentivize reserve personnel to take part in training and regimental activities, potentially providing them with extra points when applying to join the regular armed forces, thus simplifying the selection process. Currently, about 40 to 50 percent of registered reserve personnel are inactive and may be removed from the membership list if they remain absent for an extended period. The MAF's objective is to achieve a one-to-one ratio between reserve and regular force personnel.

To boost participation, the MAF plans to diversify training methods, enhance infrastructure, and intensify promotional efforts. Graduates of the Reserve Officers Training Unit (PALAPES) will be given priority in joining the regular armed forces through the graduate officer recruitment scheme and may also earn additional academic credits. General Sulaiman emphasized the importance of retaining these individuals in the regular service rather than allowing them to leave after completing their military training.

Additionally, the Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) will transfer certain support assets to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) once the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission concludes early next year. The transferred assets include generators, general-purpose vehicles, and other equipment, which will not need to be returned to Malaysia.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced that 292 assets, worth an estimated US$10 million (approximately RM42 million), will be transferred in phases until January 2027, targeting welfare, humanitarian assistance, and peacekeeping initiatives for local communities. General Sulaiman also called on young Malaysians to join the MAF, particularly in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and information technology (IT), to aid in modernizing the armed forces.