Understanding peacekeeping forces and Malaysia's Malbatt

SHAH ALAM - Amidst the ongoing brutal colonisation of Palestine by Israel, the spotlight has fallen squarely on peacekeeping forces. But what exactly are these forces, and what roles do they play?

If you find yourself with these questions, let this article provide some clarity on the subject.

For starters, peacekeeping forces are a vital component of global efforts to maintain peace and security in areas torn by conflict. They are often deployed by the United Nations (UN) to assist nations in their transition from conflict to peace.

These forces play a crucial role in safeguarding civilians, preventing conflicts, reducing violence, and helping local authorities take over these responsibilities. This multifaceted approach combines security with peacebuilding and aligns with broader political strategies.

The UN adheres to three core principles in peacekeeping operations: (1) consent of the parties involved, (2) impartiality, and (3) non-use of force except in cases of self-defense and defense of the mandate.

These peacekeeping operations are highly adaptable and have evolved over the years to meet the challenges of a changing world. Currently, there are 12 active UN peacekeeping missions spread across three continents, each with a unique set of goals and responsibilities.

Enter Malbatt

Yesterday, Malaysian Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan told Parliament that the Malaysian Armed Forces is prepared to deploy its peacekeeping unit, the Malaysian Peacekeeping Battalion (Malbatt) to Palestine should the government want to do so.

"If the government instructs us to send troops to Palestine, we will follow that directive. The decision is not within the jurisdiction of the Defence Ministry but rather falls under the purview of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” said Mohamad.

For your information, Malaysia has been actively involved in more than 38 peacekeeping missions since 1960, deploying around 40,000 peacekeepers from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) and the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP).

The Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C34) within the United Nations system served as a crucial platform for discussions about peacekeeping operations. Malaysia considered this committee essential for gathering information and guiding the enhancement of peacekeeping tools and policies.

Last year Malaysian Battalion 850-9 (Malbatt 850-9), serving in Lebanon under the United Nations Services (PNBB), received a recognition medal from Italy for their dedicated year-long deployment in the United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission.

Led by Colonel Megat Maz Ardi bin Nohuddin, the contingent consisted of 854 members, including 85 women officers and members, along with support from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and the Defence Ministry.

Throughout their deployment, Malbatt 850-9 effectively managed 24,198 operations, including Independent and Coordinated Activity With Lebanese Armed Forces (COAWL), within an extensive area of 288 square kilometres, the largest under UNIFIL's responsibility, covering 48 Municipalities.

The role of training in effective peacekeeping

Effective training is a cornerstone of successful peacekeeping operations.

The Malaysian Peacekeeping Centre (MPC) is widely recognized as a leading training facility in the region.

These courses are open to both domestic and international participants.

Women and youth in peace and security

Malaysia also placed great importance on including women and youth in capacity-building programs to achieve sustainable recovery and long-term peace.

This commitment to advancing the women, peace, and security agenda is evident in Malaysia's role as the largest contributor of women peacekeepers in UNIFIL, with 85 personnel actively serving.