SERIAN: The 1st Infantry Division (1 Div) of the Malaysian Army has reinforced its commitment to strengthening civil-military relations through the Program Jiwa Murni (PJM) under the National Defence Strategic Plan (PSPN), held in Kampung Tebakang Bidayuh and Kampung Tebakang Melayu here from June 26 to 27.
The programme is part of an initiative by the Ministry of Defence aimed at fostering closer cooperation between the Armed Forces and the community through the Whole of Government, Whole of Society (WoGoS) approach, while increasing public awareness of the Comprehensive Defence (HANRUH) concept.
Designed to promote the understanding that national defence is a shared responsibility, the programme brought together the military, government agencies and local communities to strengthen unity, patriotism and resilience in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
The two-day programme involved approximately 200 military personnel and attracted more than 1,000 local residents. It also received support from various government agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
Among the activities organised were an educational motivation programme at SK Tebakang, community clean-up and welfare projects at Masjid Darul Takwa, Kampung Tebakang Melayu, and the church in Kampung Tebakang Bidayuh, as well as free medical and dental services under the Medical Civic Action Programme (MEDCAP) and Dental Civic Action Programme (DENCAP).
The programme also featured a religious talk in conjunction with Awal Muharram, a Mini Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Carnival, military asset exhibitions, and Malaysian Army career promotion activities.
To further strengthen bonds between soldiers and the local community, a series of traditional sports and community activities were held, encouraging interaction and cooperation while fostering a stronger sense of unity and patriotism.
The official opening ceremony was officiated by Serian Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Richard Riot Jaem and Commander of the 1st Infantry Division, Major General Mohd Sobirin Mohd Yusof. Also in attendance were Commander of the 3rd Brigade Brigadier General Khairuddin Zakaria, the Deputy Resident of Serian Division, the Serian District Officer, and local community leaders.
The 1st Infantry Division said the successful implementation of the programme reflects the Malaysian Army’s continued commitment to strengthening civil-military cooperation, enhancing public understanding of national security and sovereignty, and fostering a collective spirit in defending the nation.
Through initiatives such as Program Jiwa Murni under the PSPN, the Malaysian Army aims to build stronger partnerships with communities, demonstrating that national defence extends beyond the Armed Forces and requires the active participation of every Malaysian.
