KUCHING, Oct 28: Greater participation of Sarawakians in the Territorial Army Regiment (Rejimen Askar Wataniah) needs to be enhanced to strengthen the national defense system’s readiness through community involvement in security and defense aspects.

According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Commander of the Third Infantry Brigade Malaysia (3rd Brigade), Brigadier General Zulkininie Yunus, stated that the participation level of Sarawakians in the Territorial Army remains low compared to their involvement in the regular armed forces.

“If we make a comparison with other states, we are still relatively low and need to raise awareness among Sarawakians, whether employed or unemployed, to join and serve in the Territorial Army Regiment,” he said at a press conference after leading a courtesy call on Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi complex here today.