KOTA SAMARAHAN: The 1st Infantry Division of the Malaysian Army (1 Div) marked a significant leadership transition with a formal change-of-command parade held at Kem Muara Tuang here today (April 15).
The ceremony witnessed the handover of duties from outgoing commander, Major General Datuk Khairul Anuar Abdul Aziz, to incoming commander, Major General Mohd Sobirin Mohd Yusof, who assumes the role as the 32nd Commander of 1 Div, effective April 13, 2026.
The event was officiated and witnessed by the Eastern Field Commander of the Malaysian Army, Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi.
A total of 27 officers and 440 personnel participated in the parade, which was led by Lieutenant Colonel Syed Abdillah Syed Talib, Commanding Officer of the 8th Royal Artillery Regiment.
The parade featured eight detachments comprising troops from 1 Div and formations under 3 Brigade, 9 Brigade and 31 Brigade, supported by units from the 4th Royal Armoured Corps and the 13th Royal Malay Regiment.
The ceremony began with the arrival of Khairul Anuar, who received a salute of honour before inspecting the parade.
In his farewell address, he expressed appreciation to all members of 1 Div for their unwavering support throughout his tenure, describing the division as a professional and dedicated formation.
He also conveyed his gratitude to the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanki Jaafar, the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and the Eastern Field Commander, for their trust and confidence during his leadership.
The ceremony continued with the arrival of Sobirin, who received the salute of honour before proceeding with the signing of the official handover documents, witnessed by Sofi.
Sobirin, who hails from Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang, officially takes over the leadership of the division following the completion of the ceremonial proceedings.
The change-of-command parade symbolises the continuity of leadership and operational readiness within the 1 Div, in line with its motto, ‘Pertama dan Perkasa’.
