KUALA LUMPUR: Challenges faced by the reserve branches of the Armed Forces must be addressed to boost readiness, says Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali.
He said despite “encouraging achievements” it still faced challenges such as recruitment, retention, and mobilisation readiness.
“In this regard, there is significant potential to further strengthen the Reserve Force as a resilient and responsive strategic support component that meets current defence requirements.
“The government is committed to providing comprehensive support to the force through the provision of benefits and facilities covering welfare, training, protection, and recognition of service. These measures are intended not only to encourage public participation, but also to support member retention and enhance overall readiness levels.
“Promotional efforts need to be strengthened in a more strategic and focused manner, including through collaboration with state governments, employers, educational institutions and local communities to boost public awareness, interest and participation, especially among youth and professional groups,” he said at the Conference of Chairpersons of Supporting Committees (SPJP) at Wisma Perwira on Saturday (Jan 24).
The Territorial Army currently has 28,213 members, among them 5,419 members in the Navy Reserve Force, and 2,978 Air Force Reserve Force members.
“These figures reflect the significant contribution in supporting the operational requirements and readiness of the Armed Forces,” he said.
The Defence Ministry in a statement said that today’s meeting saw 23 participants, which also included the senior leadership of the Armed Forces.
“The SPJP conference serves as an important platform to coordinate joint initiatives, explore appropriate incentives, and optimise resource sharing between the federal government and state governments.
