Stay safe: A Malbatt peacekeeper saying goodbye to his family before departing for Lebanon. — ART CHEN/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Battalion 850-12 (Malbatt 850-12) commander and colonel, Johan Effendi Mohd Salleh, is determined to fulfil his and his team’s peacekeeping duties despite the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
The senior officer said he along with his team are ready to be deployed in Lebanon, replacing the current Malbatt team on duty.
“This is my second deployment to Lebanon, having done so in 2019.
“We are aware of the situation over there but we have sworn an oath to serve our country in any capacity, and we will ensure that our mission is accomplished,” he told reporters during the sending off ceremony for the first batch of the Malbatt 850-12 squad at Subang Air Force Base yesterday.
The Malbatt 850-12 squad have all undergone ample training prior to deployment, he said.
“We will certainly give it our all to make Malaysia proud.
“We will do what we can to assist those in Lebanon,” said Kol Johan Effendi, adding that his team will do their best to fulfil the mandate by the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil).
“We are focused and determined to do our duty to the best of our ability,” he said.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he is confident the latest Malbatt squad to Lebanon will be able to overcome any challenges that come their way, despite the current conflict in Lebanon.
He said the Malbatt teams symbolised the country’s commitment in ensuring global peace.
“It is no different for the latest squad being sent to Lebanon.
“The experience faced by them (in Lebanon) will no doubt test their resilience, expertise, and dexterity.
“It will also test the spirit to serve of our warriors, but I am confident they will overcome any challenge,” he said.
The deployment of the Malbatt squads showed Malaysia building its reputation as a country consistent in diplomacy and resolving conflicts peacefully, he said.
“Malbatt-12 squad consists of 854 officers and personnel.
“They will be sent to Lebanon in four batches starting today consisting of 220 officers until Nov 18,” he said.
