Defence Minister calls on experts from oil and gas, medical, IT and geo-spatial sectors to join reserves, aiming for a one-to-one ratio with regular forces by 2033

PETALING JAYA: The Defence Ministry is urging skilled professionals from critical sectors to join the Territorial Army to bolster national defence.

Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said expertise in fields like oil and gas, medical services, geo-spatial technology and IT is needed.

This recruitment drive supports the Malaysian Armed Forces’ goal of achieving a one-to-one ratio between reserve and regular personnel by 2033.

Khaled said such specialised knowledge acts as a ‘force multiplier’ under the Total Defence (HANRUH) concept.

“National defence cannot rely solely on regular personnel,” he stated at the launch of Rapid Rail Squadron 50.

He revealed plans to expand the reserve force with specialist regiments in health, geo-spatial, petroleum, gas, and media sectors.

These specialist units would support defence efforts and counter the spread of inaccurate information. The event was held at Menara Prasarana.

Khaled highlighted the new Rapid Rail Squadron 50 as a model for integrating civilian industry expertise into military logistics.

He stressed that the security of strategic rail infrastructure must be maintained during both peacetime and crises.

The squadron functions as a specialist unit supporting the Army in protecting and restoring urban rail infrastructure during emergencies.

It addresses scenarios like natural disasters, sabotage, or major operational disruptions.

The minister also called on employers in relevant sectors to support the initiative fully.

He urged them to provide training leave for employees who choose to serve as reserve personnel for national sovereignty.

Senior military leaders and Prasarana Malaysia Berhad’s Group CEO were present at the launch.

 The Sun Malaysia