Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), particularly the Malaysian Army, have announced their commitment to continuing the Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) programme, also known as Program Jiwa Murni (PJM), into 2026, pending approval and financial allocation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Major General Datuk Khairul Azmizal Ahmad Natal, commander of the Malaysian 4th Infantry Division, emphasized the programme's effectiveness in fostering closer ties between the MAF and the civilian community. He noted that the programme also alleviates public burdens and provides direct benefits to local residents.
Major General Khairul Azmizal highlighted that while the allocation for next year has not yet been finalized, the MAF plans to prioritize the programme based on its needs and capabilities. He made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the Engineering Civic Action Programme (ENCAP) at the 4th Division level in Kampung Pasir Baru.
In 2025, the MAF's 4th Division allocated approximately RM165,000 for CIMIC programme implementation, with priorities guided by needs in affected areas. Programmes implemented included ENCAP, Program Bertanya Khabar, Forum Perdana, community clean-up activities, funeral management, aid distribution to the less fortunate in Kem Pengkalan Hulu, asset exhibitions, health and dental check-ups, and painting work.
Regarding the ENCAP in Kampung Pasir Baru, Khairul Azmizal shared that the 2nd Royal Engineers Regiment (2 RAJD) under the Eastern Field Command was tasked with repairing the village's community hall. The project, completed before year-end, now serves as a community facility.
Khairul Azmizal expressed positive feedback from the village community towards the MAF, noting that the programme not only benefits villagers but also strengthens public-military relations for national development. He explained that the PJM approach has long been practiced by the MAF, evolving from the era of the Malayan Communist Party threat, emphasizing that national defense is a shared responsibility.
He concluded by stating that despite the end of the communist threat in 1989, the MAF continues its outreach and local development efforts to bolster public-military cooperation and address national security challenges. In disaster contexts, assisting the public remains a secondary but ongoing task aligned with the MAF's societal commitment.