KUCHING – Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg received a courtesy visit from the Malaysian Army Chief, Gen Dato’ Azhan bin Hj Md Othman, at the Satria Pertiwi Complex on 30 March 2026.
The meeting marked the Army Chief’s first official engagement with the Sarawak Premier since assuming his role on 1 January 2026. Discussions centred on strengthening cooperation between the Malaysian Army and the Sarawak Government, particularly in areas of security, development, and the welfare of Sarawak’s people.
The Premier was joined by Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, who also serves as Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development. Tuan Haji Abdul Wahab bin Haji Rahim, Director of the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS), was also present.
The Malaysian Army delegation included senior commanders: Lt Gen Dato’ Mohd Sofi bin Md Lepi, Commander of the Eastern Field; Maj Gen Dato’ Khairul Anuar bin Abd Aziz, Commander of the 1st Division; and Maj Gen Dato’ Azudin bin Hassan, AKS G. Their presence underscored the importance of the meeting in reinforcing military and civil collaboration.
The courtesy call highlighted the Malaysian Army’s commitment to working closely with the Sarawak Government to ensure stability and security in the region. It also reflected the Premier’s emphasis on maintaining strong ties with national defence institutions to support Sarawak’s ongoing development.
Observers noted that such engagements are vital in addressing both traditional and non-traditional security challenges, including border management, disaster response, and community welfare. The meeting also reaffirmed Sarawak’s role in supporting national defence strategies while ensuring that local priorities are taken into account.
The visit concluded with mutual recognition of the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between the state and the armed forces. Both sides expressed confidence that the partnership would contribute to safeguarding Sarawak’s security and enhancing the well-being of its people.
