SIBU: Today (August 30), the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, made an official visit to the Rajang Area Security Command (RASCOM) Gallery at RASCOM Camp in Sibu.
Established in 2012, the RASCOM Gallery was conceived by Brigadier General Datuk Stephen Mundaw, the then Commander of the 9th Infantry Brigade.
The gallery showcases significant artefacts that narrate the history and operations of RASCOM, categorized into six main sections: the RASCOM master plan, its establishment, activities, military operations, unit history, and the development of the security area.
In a statement, RASCOM expressed that the visit not only commemorates the preservation of military history in Sarawak but also bolsters the strategic ties between the Sarawak Government and the Malaysian Army (TDM).
The visit serves as a tribute to Wan Junaidi, who actively participated in countering communist threats during the RASCOM era.
His career commenced with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in 1964, followed by service in the Police Field Force from 1968 to 1973, where he played a pivotal role in operations against the North Kalimantan Communist Party (PKKU) in Miri, Sibu, and Kapit.
During his tenure, he also served in RASCOM, endangering his life in various operations to safeguard national sovereignty.
The visit not only reinforces the bond between military institutions and state leadership but also underscores the Sarawak Government’s dedication to supporting the Malaysian Army’s endeavours in fortifying the state’s security and defence.
The collaboration between these entities is vital for upholding peace and stability in Sarawak, in alignment with contemporary and strategic developments in national defence.
Throughout the visit, Wan Junaidi was briefed, toured the gallery, participated in a group photo session, and signed the visitor’s book before concluding the event with a luncheon at Wisma Perwira 9 Brigade.
RASCOM, established on March 26, 1972, by Malaysia’s second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak bin Hussein, under National Security Council Directive No. 4, aimed to control the escalating activities of the North Kalimantan Communist Party (PKKU) in central Sarawak.
The command covered 58,544 square kilometres, encompassing the districts of Sarikei, Mukah, Sibu, and Kapit.
Additional attendees included the Minister of Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development, Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, and his wife, Datin Seri Loreta Sawot, the Eastern Field Commander of the Army Eastern Field Commander, Lt-Gen Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi, and his wife, Datin Erni Irawati Rosli, alongside the 1st Infantry Division Commander, Major General Datuk Mohamed Fauzi Kamis.
