KUCHING: The army’s Eastern Field Command is taking steps to expose all officers and members to cybersecurity issues to bring them up to speed on cyber threats.
Its commander Lt- Gen Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi said this is being done in anticipation of these threats becoming as significant as traditional threats in the next three to four years.
He said this on the occasion of the Eastern Field Command’s 10th anniversary which was celebrated with a grand parade here Saturday (May 18).
Themed “A Decade Together with Preserved Sovereignty” it served to highlight its strategic significance in bolstering the army’s operational capabilities in Sabah and Sarawak.
Mohd Sofi said the Eastern Field Command was established to enhance the army presence in Sabah and Sarawak.
“This allows the two division commanders to focus on operational and technical aspects, while the Eastern Field Commander concentrates on strategic and future planning, especially concerning border security.
“Collaboration is ongoing with state governments and related agencies to maintain security and unity in Sabah and Sarawak,” Sofi said.
Highlighting future plans, the commander announced a strategic realignment stating that by the end of this year, the 31st brigade headquarters will be moved to Bintulu.
This will enable the 31st Brigade to focus on the security of northern Sarawak, while the existing 9th Brigade will concentrate on central Sarawak.
“The 31st Brigade Headquarters and the 7th Border Regiment will begin constructing their new camp in the Samalaju area by the end of next year. This is part of our Army4NextG strategic plan,” he explained.
He also highlighted the importance of the Sarawak Defense Package initiated by the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, saying that the equipment supplied through this package will use the latest technology to enhance border operations in terms of communication and detection.
Addressing concerns about managing remote posts, specifically in light of the recent attack on the Ulu Tiram Police Station in Johor, he acknowledged the challenges but emphasised the necessity of placing units in these areas to prevent cross-border intrusions and smuggling activities.
“We ensure communication between distant posts and higher headquarters, coordinating operations to reduce communication gaps,” he noted.
“Furthermore, the opening of several Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) facilities at the borders will facilitate easier handling of arrests, detentions, and deportations, making operations more efficient,” he said.
