Gerak Khas (Special Forces)

''Gerak Khas'' ('','' Jawi: ), also spelled ''Gerakhas'', is a Malaysian Army special forces unit that performs special operations missions such as direct action, unconventional warfare, sabotage, counter-terrorism, and intelligence gathering. ''Gerak Khas'' was founded in 1965 during the Indonesia-Malaysia conflict, and they gained worldwide fame and recognition after successfully pacifying the communist insurgency in Malaysia's jungles between 1968 and 1989.

The majority of ''Gerak Khas'' commandos are assigned to the 21st Special Service Group, but they are also attached to other units such as the 91st Intelligence Operations Group, Defence Special Operations Division, Special Warfare Training Centre and the Malaysian Army Ready Battalion ().

History

Origin: Malaysian Special Service Unit

''Gerak Khas'' which was founded on 7 May 1965 as the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU), is the successor to the Malayan Special Forces. This unit started as a special operations task force, with all of its members receiving commando training from the Royal Marines' 40 Commando.

The MSSU was a joint special forces task force established in 1965 during the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation. The unit's formation was proposed by Abdul Razak Hussein, Malaysia's then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and later its second Prime Minister. Abdul Razak, who had served as a resistance fighter trained by Force 136 during World War II, drew on his guerrilla warfare experience to advocate for a dedicated special forces unit for the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).

Abdul Razak's involvement in the anti-Japanese resistance was unique. Coming from a prominent Malay noble family, he infiltrated the Japanese-Malayan administration under the guise of collaboration, using his position to gather intelligence. His wartime experiences with guerrilla tactics inspired his vision for a Malaysian special forces unit.

To bring this idea to life, he collaborated with General Tunku Osman, the Chief of Defence Forces at the time. Tunku Osman, also a former Force 136 agent trained in commando tactics by the Special Operations Executive (SOE), shared Abdul Razak's vision. Together, they approached the 40 Commando Royal Marines, then based in Sembawang Naval Base, Singapore, to help design the MSSU's selection and training programs. This collaboration laid the foundation for Malaysia's first modern special forces unit.

The MSSU recruited personnel from all branches of the MAF, although most successful candidates came from the Malaysian Army, with a smaller number from the Royal Malaysian Navy. As the largest branch of the MAF, the Malaysian Army took administrative responsibility for the MSSU. The unit was conceived as an ad hoc task force, and its structure reflected its temporary status.

Nucleus team

In 1965, the Ministry of Defence invited volunteers from all branches of the military to undergo commando training. The 40 Commando of the Royal Marines conducted an introductory training session at Majidee Camp in Johor Bahru on 25 February 1965. Out of the 300 volunteers, only 15 individuals were selected to attend the six-week Basic Commando Course at the British Army Jungle Warfare Training School. By the end of the course, only four officers and nine other ranks successfully passed the rigorous selection.

The following men formed the nucleus team that would later establish the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU):
# Major Abu Hassan Bin Abdullah (Colonel, retired)
# Lieutenant Mohd Ramli Bin Ismail (Major General, retired)
# Second Lieutenant Ghazali Bin Ibrahim (Major General, retired)
# Second Lieutenant Hussin Bin Awang Senik (Colonel, retired)
# 4861 Staff Sergeant Zakaria Bin Adas
# 6842 Sergeant Ariffin Bin Mohamad
# 300152 Sergeant Anuar Bin Talib
# 201128 Sergeant Yahya Bin Darus
# 202072 Corporal Silva Dorai
# 203712 Corporal Moo Kee Fah (Warrant Officer 2nd Class, retired)
# 13852 Lance Corporal Johari Bin Haji Morhd Siraj
# 10622 Lance Corporal Sabri Bin Ahmad
# 10773 Lance Corporal Muhammad Shah Izwan Bin Hanafi

Following this, six additional Basic Commando Courses were conducted, allowing the MSSU to reach its full operational strength. At the time, the MSSU was stationed at Sebatang Karah Camp in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, marking the beginning of Malaysia's modern special forces development.

13 May incident

The MSSU was on the verge of being disbanded by the brass after the Indonesia–Malaysia conflict officially ended in 1966. The Communist insurgency occurred in 1968, but at the time, all military units in Malaysia were trained in jungle warfare, and Malaysia was assisted by special forces from the Commonwealth of Nations for special operations. Malaysian police, in addition to the military, had their own jungle squads (now known as General Operations Force) to assist in combating communists at the time. A special operations task force did not appear to be required.

The 13 May incident occurred in major cities throughout Peninsular Malaysia in 1969, and the MSSU was dispatched from Sebatang Karah Camp to defend the Mindef Camp () in Kuala Lumpur. MSSU also collaborated with the Royal Malaysia Police's Special Branch to apprehend leaders of gangsters and triads who contributed to the incident's racial tensions behind the scenes. As a result, the incident was short-lived, and the brass decided not to disband the MSSU.

1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment

The MSSU, as a task force, was made up of commando-trained soldiers and sailors from various regiments and corps of the Malaysian Army and Royal Malaysian Navy. This creates a problem because the soldiers and sailors are also responsible for their original units. On 1 August 1970, army command relocated the MSSU to Sungai Udang Camp in Malacca and established a new unit as the MSSU's successor. The regiment is known as the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment. Soldiers and sailors who wanted to serve as special forces had to resign from their original units and volunteer to join the 1 MSSR by 1973.

Due to expansion, the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment became the 21st Special Service Group.

Bases

The ''Gerak Khas'' has occupied various camps since its founding. Among the camps are the following:

* Majidee Camp in Johor Bahru (Closed on 21 June 2014)
*Sebatang Karah Camp in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan
* Imphal Camp in Kuala Lumpur
* Sungai Udang Camp in Malaccca
* Slim Camp in Cameron Highlands, Pahang
* Erskine Camp in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
* Sri Iskandar Camp in Mersing, Johor

Only two are still under the command of the 21st Special Service Group. The camps are as follows:

Sungai Udang Camp

Sungai Udang Camp is known as the 'Home of the Commandos' and the spiritual home of the ''Gerak Khas''. The ''Pusat Latihan Peperangan Khas'' (PULPAK; ' Special Warfare Training Centre') was established here in 1976 as part of the 3rd Malaysian Plan and the expansion of the Armed Forces. Due to overcrowding at Sungai Udang Military Camp, the 22nd Commando Regiment relocated to Kuala Kubu Bharu in 1983. This camp is still occupied by two ''Gerak Khas'' regiments today.

Sri Iskandar Camp

The 21st Special Service Group, along with one of its combat regiments and all supporting units, has relocated to the newly established special operations force base at Sri Iskandar Camp () in Mersing. Situated south of Mersing, Sri Iskandar Camp spans an area of and is equipped with extensive infrastructure. The base comprises 200 buildings, of roads, three bridges, a harbour, helicopter landing pads, parade squares, and various other facilities designed to support special operations forces. The total cost of the project amounted to MYR 422 million.

Originally named Sri Mersing Camp, the base was later renamed Sri Iskandar Camp in honour of the late Sultan Iskandar of Johor, a dedicated supporter of ''Gerak Khas'' and its former Colonel-in-Chief.

Structure

21st Special Service Group

The 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG; ) serves as the primary command for the ''Gerak Khas'' commandos, with the majority of its personnel attached to this unit. As the special forces command of the Malaysian Army, 21 SSG operates as a brigade-sized special operations formation reporting directly to the Chief of Army.

The group consists of three special forces regiments, each specialising in different aspects of unconventional warfare, and is supported by various special forces support units that enhance its operational capabilities. The 21st Special Service Group is commanded by a major general, reflecting its significance within the Malaysian Army's elite forces structure.

Special Forces Directorate

The Special Forces Directorate is a small group of around 20 personnel, tasked with planning and co-ordination of resources and equipment of 21st Special Service Group. The directorate also provides assistance during operational deployment of 21st Special Service Group units and formulate policy guidelines. The Cell also undertakes Planning and Intelligence tasks as well as Operational Research Section.

Others

Apart from their primary role within the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG), some ''Gerak Khas'' commandos serve as instructors at the Special Warfare Training Centre. This centre, now managed by the Malaysian Army Training and Doctrine Command (MyTRADOC), plays a crucial role in training special forces personnel. Additionally, a detachment of ''Gerak Khas'' commandos has been assigned to the Malaysian Army Ready Battalion, where they serve as a special operations element.

During the 1980s, some ''Gerak Khas'' commandos were also attached to the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) under the Ground and Air Defence Force (HANDAU). Within HANDAU, they formed the RMAF Air Rescue Team, a combat search and rescue (CSAR) unit, as well as the RMAF Rapid Deployment Force (RDF), an air assault unit. These assignments showcased the versatility and adaptability of ''Gerak Khas'', extending their expertise beyond the army.

National Special Operations Force

In 2016, Malaysia's main counter-terrorism operators merged to form a single special operations task force. Some 11th Special Service Regiment operators have been chosen to serve in the National Special Operations Force. The National Special Operations Force was disbanded in July 2018.

Defence Special Operations Division

Following the disbandment of the National Special Operations Force (NSOF) in 2018, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) sought to establish a new joint special operations task force exclusively composed of elite units from within the MAF. This initiative led to the formation of the Defence Special Operations Division (DSOD), or ''Bahagian Operasi Pasukan Khas Pertahanan'', in 2020.

Shortened from the Ministry of Defence Special Operations Division, the DSOD serves as the joint special operations task force across the different branches of the military. Several ''Gerak Khas'' commandos have been assigned to this unit, further strengthening its operational capabilities.

91st Intelligence Operations Group

Originally established as the ''Pasukan Khas Perisikan Tempur'' (Combat Intelligence Special Forces), this unit was formed on 1 April 1972 with 35 commandos from ''Gerak Khas'' assigned to serve as a combat intelligence unit under the Royal Intelligence Corps. Over time, the unit expanded in scope, eventually evolving into what is now known as the 91st Intelligence Operations Group (, 91 GOP).

Today, 91 GOP is responsible for various military intelligence operations, with a select number of its personnel being trained as special forces operatives focused on intelligence gathering and covert missions. Those aspiring to join the special forces component of the unit must successfully pass the Malaysian Special Forces selection process, similar to the requirements for other elite units within ''Gerak Khas''.

Recruitment, selection and training

Special Warfare Training Centre

On 1 August 1976, the Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC), known in Malay as ''Pusat Latihan Peperangan Khusus'' (PULPAK), was officially established. Before its formation, the responsibility of training ''Gerak Khas'' commandos fell under the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment. With the creation of SWTC, training was centralised and systematised to enhance the capabilities of Malaysia’s special operations forces.

Although no longer under the command of the 21st Special Service Group, SWTC continues to receive support from the 21st Commando Regiment, 22nd Commando Regiment, and 11th Special Service Regiment, which contribute both manpower and expertise. Its primary role is to provide specialised training tailored to modern operational requirements.
# To train basic commandos for the Malaysian Army and other services (Navy, Air Force).
# To train Special Operations Forces personnel as well as other soldiers in specialised training and special operations as directed by higher authorities.
# To provide advanced training for Special Operations Forces and army personnel as directed by higher authority.
# To carry out training and evaluation tests on Special Operations Forces units.
# To deliver qualified observers and instructors for specialised assignments in Special Operations Forces Units.
# To revise and analyse all doctrines pertaining to specialised training and operations.

''Gerak Khas'' Selection

The Malaysian Army ''Gerak Khas'' selection and training pipeline consists of three main stages: Preparatory Course, the Basic Commando Course, and Continuation Training. This rigorous selection and training process is conducted three times a year, with both officers and other ranks undergoing the same selection criteria to join ''Gerak Khas''.

Before the 2020s, military personnel who wished to volunteer for the ''Gerak Khas'' selection were required to serve in any military branch, corps, or regiment for at least one year before becoming eligible. However, in the 2020s, this requirement was revised to allow new recruits in boot camp to be considered for selection. Candidates must be identified and recommended by boot camp instructors based on their potential and physical capabilities. Despite this change, recruits must still complete their basic military training before being allowed to enter the special forces selection process.

Preparatory Course (4 weeks)

The Preparatory Course for the ''Gerak Khas'' selection pipeline is officially known as ''Pemanasan Kursus Asas Komando'' in Malay, which translates to "Warm-up for the Basic Commando Course". Also referred to as the ''Gerak Khas'' orientation, this 30-day course is designed to prepare candidates for the physically and mentally demanding Basic Commando Course.

During this phase, trainees undergo introductory training, focusing on physical conditioning, mental resilience, and basic skills required for the next stage of selection. Unlike the Basic Commando Course, the Preparatory Course is less strict, and trainees are occasionally permitted to leave camp on weekends. However, by the end of the course, they must pass a fitness and swimming test to qualify for the Basic Commando Course.

Basic Commando Course (12 weeks)

The Malaysian Army conducts the ''Kursus Asas Komando'' (Basic Commando Course) three times a year at the Special Warfare Training Centre, located in Sungai Udang Camp, Malacca. This intensive 12-week course is divided into five phases and serves as the gateway to joining ''Gerak Khas'' and other special forces.

The training module is comparable to a condensed version of the pre-2000 United Kingdom Special Forces Selection, which lasted 15 weeks. Historically, the course initially lasted 24 weeks in the 1970s before being streamlined to 12 weeks in the 1980s. While primarily designed for the Malaysian Armed Forces, the course is also open to members of the Johor Military Forces (JMF). Additionally, special forces trainees from friendly nations, including Brunei, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka, have participated in the program.

For a detailed breakdown, refer to the Malaysian Special Forces Selection.

Graduation

Trainee whom pass will be given a week rest after final phase and before green beret award ceremony. At the ceremony, the graduates will perform a beach assault demonstration in front of VIPs and graduates' family and friends before they will be awarded green beret, light blue lanyard and a Fairbairn & Sykes Commando Dagger.

Advanced training

The Special Warfare Training Centre provides advanced special operations training up to supervisor level. There are a few exceptions where ''Gerak Khas'' commandos are sent to overseas schools for advanced training. However, this is reserved for the best trainees. Among the advanced training courses available are:

* Sniper
* Mountaineering
* Small unit patrol
* Close-quarters combat
* Parachuting
* High-altitude military parachuting
* Pathfinder
* Parachute rigger
* Small boat operations
* Underwater diving
* Combat swimmer
* Underwater demolition

Expansions

The 2nd Special Service Regiment was established on 1 January 1977, based at Sungai Udang Camp, Malacca. In 1979, Colonel Borhan Bin Ahmad was appointed the Commandant of Special Warfare Training Centre. A separate Special Forces Directorate was established in the Ministry of Defence on 4 April 1980 and the ''Markas Pemerintahan Gerak Khas'' (') was established in Imphal Camp, Kuala Lumpur. As such, supporting units were attached to ''Gerak Khas''.

The commando units were then re-designated and 1st Special Service Regiment became 21st Regiment Para Commando and 2 Special Service Regiment became 22nd Regiment Para Commando. On 1 April 1981, the 11th and 12th Special Service Regiments were formed to provide support to 21st Commando and 22nd Commando. However 12th Special Service Regiment was disbanded soon after during the realignment of the Malaysian Army in the 1980s and its members were deployed to other combat units. Further to this development, the designation for the Para Commando Regiment was changed to the Commando Regiment. In 1983, 22nd Commando Regiment moved to Kuala Kubu Baru due to insufficient facilities in Sungai Udang Camp. All three as well as the Royal Malaysian Navy PASKAL will be soon moving out to the new SOF base in Mersing, facing the South China Sea unlike the Sungai Udang which is facing the very busy waterway of the Straits of Malacca. Sungai Udang Camp is very small and lacking in many facilities for a good SOF base and training centre. It is also near to a massive oil refinery and countless condominium projects which makes it unsuitable for security and practical reasons. The 3 regiments again had a name change, becoming known as 11th CRW Regiment, 21st Commando Regiment and 22nd Commando Regiment.

Sungai Udang Camp was certified as the 'Home of the Commandos'. Its achievements attracted many volunteers from other corps. Lieutenant Colonel Borhan bin Ahmad was the first administrator of MSSG responsible for expanding the Special Operations Forces. Various activities including sports and other Army activities were organised to get the SOF involved. Joint programs are conducted with other countries such as Britain, New Zealand, Australia and the United States to improve knowledge and to get new experience in certain aspects of SOF operations.

In the Third Malaysia Plan and the expansion of the Armed Forces, Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC) was established on 1 August 1976. The function is to fulfill the training requirements for the Special Forces Team. After the establishment of SWTC, the Second Regiment of Special Service was established on 1 January 1977. All the three units were based in Sungai Udang, Malacca. In 1979, SWTC was fully established with Colonel Borhan bin Ahmad as the Commandant.

The Special Forces Directorate was established in the Ministry of Defence on 4 April 1980. Further to this, in January 1981, ''Gerak Khas'' Command Headquarters was established in Imphal Camp, Kuala Lumpur. The establishment of the Special Operations Forces group also involved other elements such as the combat support units and service support units. At the same time the names of the commando units were re-designated to 21st Regiment Para Commando and 22nd Regiment Para Commando.

Uniforms and insignia

''Gerak Khas'' commandos wear the standard combat uniform of the Malaysian Army, but they are distinguished by several unique elements. These include their green beret with the GERAKHAS insignia, a light blue lanyard on the right shoulder (a tradition inherited from the 40 Commando, Royal Marines), the Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife (commando dagger), highly folded sleeves, and the GERAKHAS shoulder tab.

Green beret

The green beret is a widely recognised symbol among special forces worldwide. ''Gerak Khas'' commandos wear theirs with the ‘Harimau Berjuang’ cap badge. Unlike other military units, ''Gerak Khas'' follows the Royal Marines’ beret-wearing style, where the cap badge is positioned on the left side of the beret, facing the side above the ear. This tradition was passed down from the Royal Marines Scout Snipers during the Communist insurgency in Malaysia and is still used by British units like the 45 Commando of the Royal Marines and the Parachute Regiment.

'Harimau Berjuang' Cap badge

The 'Harimau Berjuang' (Fighting Tiger) cap badge features a roaring tiger, a commando dagger at the centre, an anchor rope, and a ribbon displaying the unit’s motto, "Cepat dan Cergas" (Fast and Agile). The current gold-coloured cap badge has been in use since the 2010s, replacing the older silver version.

The earlier version, which inspired the modern design, was introduced with the formation of the 1st Malaysian Special Service Regiment (1 MSSR) in 1970. This version featured a different tiger design, known as the "Laughing Tiger", created by members of 1 MSSR at Sungai Udang Camp. The design was inspired by the "Chap Harimau" (Tiger Brand) cement logo, which was commonly seen around the newly renovated camp. Additionally, the older version used the Romanised Bahasa Melayu spelling (Za'aba Spelling) of the unit’s motto, written as "Chepat dan Chergas", instead of the modern spelling used today.

This cap badge is worn by ''Gerak Khas'' commandos, regardless of the unit to which they are attached. For example, in the 1980s, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos assigned to the RMAF Ground and Air Defence Force (HANDAU) as special operations elements—whether from the Malaysian Army or the Royal Malaysian Air Force—wore the ''Gerak Khas'' green beret with the ''Gerak Khas'' cap badge, but with the red RMAF Regiment beret backing (beret flash).

Light blue lanyard

''Gerak Khas'' commandos wear a light blue lanyard, a mark of honour bestowed upon them by their founders and instructors, the 40 Commando of the Royal Marines. This tradition dates back to 1965, when 40 Commando RM was responsible for training Malaysia’s first special forces unit, the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU). In Malaysia, all soldiers who successfully complete the Basic Commando Course at the Special Warfare Training Centre are awarded this light blue lanyard.

'GERAKHAS' Shoulder flash

''Gerak Khas'' commandos also wear a golden-black GERAKHAS shoulder flash on their left sleeve. This insignia is worn in a similar manner to the U.S. Army Special Forces Tab, signifying their status as elite special forces operators within the Malaysian Army.

Ranks

Unlike regular Malaysian Army units that use black chevron bars, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos wear distinctive green bar chevrons on their No. 5 combat uniform for other ranks (). This unique insignia sets them apart from standard infantry units.

Sleeves with a high fold

One of the distinctive traditions of ''Gerak Khas'' is their unique sleeve-folding style, known as ''Lipatan Gaya Samseng'' in Malay (Gangster-Style Sleeve Fold). Unlike the formal sleeve-folding of the Malaysian Army, where the camouflage pattern remains visible, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos fold their sleeves higher, revealing the plain inner side of the uniform and exposing their biceps. This style is inherited from the Royal Marines' No. 3B Summer Dress and the Special Air Service (SAS) during the Communist insurgency (1968–1989).

Commando dagger

As a symbol of graduation, the first-generation ''Gerak Khas'' commandos who completed the Royal Marines’ Basic Commando Course were awarded the Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife. This tradition continues today—graduates of the Special Warfare Training Centre receive a Fairbairn–Sykes commando dagger, along with their green beret and light blue lanyard. The commando dagger is also part of the ceremonial dress for the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG) and is worn on the left side of the belt during military parades.

Equipment

As an elite unit, there is a broad range of various weapons used by the 21 SSG. The known weapons used by the unit, include handguns, shotguns, submachine guns, assault rifles, machine-guns, sniper rifles, grenade launchers and anti-tanks, are:

Deployments and missions

Indonesia–Malaysia Confrontation (1963–1966)

During the conflict, ''Gerak Khas''—then known as the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU)—was established in 1965 to help defend Malaysia against Indonesian military incursions.

The MSSU’s first-ever combat deployment took place during Operation Khas in September 1965, as part of Operation Claret and a continuation of the Battle of Plaman Mapu from April 1965. The operation, led by British forces, included personnel from the Special Air Service (SAS), Special Boat Section (now the Special Boat Service), 40 Commando Royal Marines, and the MSSU. They were deployed to Sebatik Island, Tawau, and Semporna, near the Indonesia-Malaysia border, to conduct reconnaissance and repel invading Indonesian forces attempting to breach Malaysian territory.

13 May Incident (1969)

During the racial riots of May 1969, the Malaysian Special Service Unit was tasked with securing the Mindef Camp () in Kuala Lumpur from potential attacks. Some commandos also collaborated with the Malaysian Police Special Branch, the country’s domestic intelligence agency, to apprehend gang leaders and triad members who were fuelling racial tensions behind the scenes.

Communist Insurgency (1968–1989)

Throughout the communist insurgency, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos engaged in counterinsurgency operations, conducting jungle warfare missions against the Malayan Communist Party (MCP) insurgents.

Somalia (1993–1995)

Malaysia joined the United Nations Operation in Somalia II (UNOSOM II) in 1993, with ''Gerak Khas'' commandos assigned as the Quick Reaction Force for the region under Malaysian command.

That same year, ''Gerak Khas'' took part in the rescue operations during the infamous Battle of Mogadishu, working alongside the Royal Malay Regiment and the Pakistan Army. Their mission was to extract trapped U.S. Army Rangers and Delta Force operatives amid fierce combat against warlord Mohamed Farah Aidid’s forces. One Malaysian soldier, Lance Corporal Mat Aznan Awang of the Royal Malay Regiment, was killed, and several others were wounded during the operation.

In 1994, two Malaysian soldiers were killed in action when their vehicle was ambushed by militants during an intelligence-gathering mission led by the Italian peacekeeping force. The fallen soldiers were Staff Sergeant Azman Mohamad Tahir of the 21st Commando Regiment and Corporal Gani Binjoi of the Royal Ranger Regiment.

Bosnia and Herzegovina (1993–1996)

''Gerak Khas'' commandos, mainly from the 11th Special Service Regiment, were deployed to Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the UN Protection Force (UNPROFOR) from 1993 to 1995 and later the Implementation Force (IFOR) from 1995 to 1996. Malaysia was the only Muslim country to deploy special forces as part of its peacekeeping contingent. These commandos were frequently called upon to support peacekeeping operations, particularly in high-risk areas such as ''Sniper Alley''.

16th Commonwealth Games (1998)

During the 1998 Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos from the 21st Special Service Group (21 SSG) were deployed alongside the ''Pasukan Gerakan Khas'' (PGK), the Police Special Operations Command. Their role was to provide security and stand by for hostage rescue operations if necessary.

Sauk Siege (2000)

''Gerak Khas'' commandos from the 22nd Commando Regiment (22 Cdo) were deployed to Bukit Jenalik, Sauk, near Kuala Kangsar, Perak, to capture 32 Al-Ma'unah militants who had fortified a hill after raiding and stealing weapons from a military camp in Gerik. The operation, codenamed ''Operation 304'', aimed to neutralise the threat and rescue hostages.

During the standoff, two Special Actions Unit police personnel—Sergeant Mohd Shah Ahmad and Detective Corporal Sagadevan Rajoo—along with a civilian, Jaafar Puteh, were taken hostage by the militants. As the operation unfolded, Corporal Matthew anak Medan, a ''Gerak Khas'' commando from 22 Cdo, was captured while conducting reconnaissance. He was tortured and later executed after refusing to comply with the militants' demands. Detective Corporal Sagadevan was also killed before the remaining hostages were successfully rescued.

Meanwhile, the 11th Special Service Regiment was deployed to oversee negotiations between the militants and Lieutenant General Zaini Mohamad Said and Assistant Superintendent Abdul Razak Mohd Yusof, who represented the Malaysian government. The standoff ended when the militants surrendered to Malaysian authorities.

Timor-Leste (2006)

''Gerak Khas'', under the 21 SSG, was deployed alongside the 10th Parachute Brigade (10 PARA) and the Royal Malaysian Police’s PGK as part of ''Operation Astute'', an Australian-led peacekeeping mission to stabilise Timor-Leste.

Genting Sempah Incident (2007)

In July 2007, ''Gerak Khas'' commandos from 22 Cdo, then specialising in mountain warfare, collaborated with the 10 PARA, RMAF Special Forces (PASKAU), PGK, and other Malaysian emergency response units in a search-and-rescue (SAR) operation. The mission aimed to locate six missing Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) crew members after a Sikorsky S-61A-4 Nuri helicopter crashed near Genting Sempah in the Genting Highlands.

On 17 July 2007, the wreckage was discovered approximately from the reported crash site. Tragically, all six crew members were found deceased inside the cabin.

MALCON–UNIFIL (2007–Ongoing)

Malaysia has been deploying peacekeeping contingents to Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (MALCON-UNIFIL) since 2007. ''Gerak Khas'' commandos from 21 SSG have been deployed alongside 10 PARA, the Naval Special Forces (PASKAL), and PASKAU to serve in peacekeeping operations as part of the Quick Reaction Forces (QRF).

MALCON–ISAF (2010–2014)

''Gerak Khas'', along with PASKAU, 10 PARA, and PASKAL, was deployed as part of Malaysia’s contingent (''MALCON'') under the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan since 2010. Their mission primarily involved administrative support and humanitarian aid in the Bamiyan District, in coordination with the New Zealand Defence Force.

Lahad Datu Standoff (2013)

''Gerak Khas'' was mobilised to Lahad Datu, Sabah, during the 2013 standoff against armed Sulu militants. Alongside other Malaysian Special Forces units, they played a crucial role in tracking, engaging, and neutralising the insurgents.

Died in the line of duty

Notable members

Many ''Gerak Khas'' commandos have received decorations for bravery and gallantry. Aside from that, some ''Gerak Khas'' commandos have done many notable things that have etched their names in history.

* Ahmad Abdul Rashid – Ahmad bin Abdul Rashid (Service number: 410336) was awarded the Star of the Commander of Valour ( — ''PGB''), Malaysia's second highest valour award, in 1975 for his role in ''Operation Murai'' in 1974. Then a Captain, he was the first Officer Commanding of the ''Pasukan Khas Perisikan Tempur'' (Combat Intelligence Special Forces), the predecessor of the 91st Intelligence Operations Group, and led a raid on a communist guerrilla camp in Karak, Pahang. In 1985, while serving as Commander of the 22nd Para Commando Regiment (now the 22nd Commando Regiment) with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, he tragically died in a traffic accident while returning to Erskine Camp from Sungai Udang Camp.
* Ahmed Abdul Rahman – Ahmed is one of 20 Malaysians who took part in an expedition that made Malaysia the first Asian country to perform a free-fall parachute jump at the North Pole. On 21 April 1998, he and 19 other skydivers, mostly commandos from the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Malaysia Police, jumped out of a plane with a Proton Wira. ''Gerak Khas'' was represented by only Ahmed Abdul Rahman (Lieutenant at the time) and Maznan Mat Isa. The expedition is a collaboration between the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Royal Malaysia Police, and a Proton-sponsored adventure club. There is one female skydiver who is a mother of five children, and the youngest skydiver is 21 years old.
* Md Ali Ahmad – Md. Ali bin Ahmad (Service number: 23852) was awarded the PGB in 1974 at the age of 23 for his bravery during ''Operation Gonzales'' in Perak, making him the youngest PGB recipient in history. Then a Trooper (the official rank designation for Private in 21 SSG), he received the honour alongside his teammate, Corporal Zaki Nordin. In 1977, he transferred to the Special Investigation Branch of the Royal Military Police Corps, where he served until his retirement in 1991 as a Staff Sergeant.
* Baharin Abd Jalil – Baharin bin Abd Jalil (Service number: 410560) is one of the PGB recipients. He was awarded the PGB in 1971 for his role in Operation Hentam. He later became a member of ''Gerak Khas''. He was a Major when he retired from the military.
* Borhan Ahmad – He is the only commando in the Malaysian Armed Forces to have attained the highest professional position. He was appointed the 12th Chief of Defence Forces on 1 January 1994. He retired from the military with the rank of General in 1995.
* Clarence Tan – Tan is a Singapore army officer who founded the Singapore Armed Forces Commando Formation. In 1960, he volunteered for the Singapore Military Force (the predecessor of the Singapore Armed Forces) and was selected to attend the Officer Cadet Course at Malaysia's Royal Military College, where he was commissioned to Second Lieutenant. In 1965, he went through commando training with the Royal Marines and joined the Malaysian Special Service Unit. He was a member of the MSSU until 1969, when he was approached by the Director of the Singapore Armed Forces Training Institute about forming a commando unit in the Singapore Armed Forces. He was appointed as the first Commanding Officer of the Singaporean 1st Commando Battalion, but due to slow recruitment to the new commando unit, he was temporarily reassigned to the Malaysian Special Service Regiment, where he served in Sabah and Taiping, Perak during Malaysia's Communist insurgency. He returned to the Singapore Armed Forces in 1974 and has remained there ever since. In 1992, he retired from the military with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
* Mahmor Said – Mahmor bin Said (Service number: 14812) is a recipient of the PGB. He received the PGB for his participation in a military operation in Sarawak. He was a Warrant Officer Class II when he retired from the military.
* Mathew Medan – Mathew anak Medan received the PGB posthumously in 2002. During the Al-Mau'nah armed rebellion, he was a member of the 22nd Commando Regiment reconnaissance team at Sauk. While gathering intelligence, he was caught by a member of the rebel forces. Mathew was tortured after his identity was revealed, including being shot at his feet and hanging upside down from a tree before being killed. The rebels, on the other hand, lie to the government, claiming that Mathew has been taken hostage rather than killed. Posthumously, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
* Maznan Mat Isa – Maznan is one of 20 Malaysians who took part in an expedition that made Malaysia the first Asian country to perform a free-fall parachute jump at the North Pole. ''Gerak Khas'' was represented by only Ahmed Abdul Rahman and Maznan Mat Isa (Warrant Officer Class II at the time).
* Muit Ahmad – Muit bin Ahmad (Service number: 928133) is a PGB recipient. In 1977, he was awarded the PGB for his participation in a military operation in Sarawak. He left the military in 1986 with the rank of Colour Sergeant.
* Moorthy Maniam – Moorthy was a member of Malaysia's first ten-man expedition, including M. Magendran, to the summit of Mount Everest in 1997. In 1998, he was involved in a military training accident that left the lower half of his body paralysed. He died in 2005 and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant posthumously.
* Rasli Buang – Rasli bin Buang (Service number: 19151) was posthumously awarded the Grand Knight of Valour (SP), Malaysia’s highest valour award. On 6 July 1971, during a jungle patrol in Chemor, Perak, his team was ambushed by communist insurgents. When two teammates were shot, he rushed to their aid but was fatally shot in the neck while trying to rescue them. His sacrifice and bravery were honoured with the nation's highest military recognition and was posthumously promoted from Trooper to Lance Corporal.
* Sigai Nawan – Sigai anak Nawan (Service number: 901370) is a recipient of the PGB. In 1974, he was awarded the PGB for his 1972 mission in Kanowit, Sarawak. Sigai was a member of 5 Troop, Yankee Squadron, which was stationed at Pagar Ruyong Camp in Sibu, Sarawak, and was on standby as a quick reaction force at the time. His squadron received an emergency call to assist two different units under attack, and his troop was dispatched to one of the locations, Ulu Dap in Kanowit. He was involved in two gunfights there and managed to kill two enemies. After ten years of service, he retired with the rank of Corporal.
* Zaini Mohamad Said – In the year 2000, an extremist group, Al-Mau'nah, led an armed rebellion to overthrow the government. The Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police are working together to subdue the rebellion that has made Sauk in Perak its base. Zaini was in charge of the military part. The rebel leader, Amin, desired to meet with the commanders of both military and law enforcement forces, so Zaini and Abdul Razak Mohd Yusof, representing the Royal Malaysia Police, agreed to meet with the rebel leader at Sauk. During the meeting, Amin attempts to shoot Zaini, but Zaini quickly pushes the rifle barrel to the side, causing Amin to instantly kill one of his own men, Halim. Both Zaini and Abdul Razak were awarded the Malaysian highest valour award, the Grand Knight of Valour, for their bravery. He retired from the military in 2001 with the rank of Lieutenant General.
* Zaki Nordin – Zaki bin Nordin (Service number: 16075) was a PGB recipient. He and Trooper Md Ali Ahmad were both awarded PGB for the same operation, ''Operation Gonzales'' in Perak. He was a sergeant when he retired from the army. He died on 10 March 1984.

In popular culture

Books, televisions and movie.
* 2011: "Beret Hijau" is an RTM TV series about a village boy who aspires to be a commando.
* 2011: "Rejimen Gerak Khas: Pasukan Khusus Tentera Darat Malaysia"is a book about ''Gerak Khas''' history was written by Ahmad Ridzuan Wan Chik.
* 2012: "Menjunjung Bere Hijau" is a book written by retired Army Major Nazar Talib. His life as an officer in the 21st Special Service Group was documented in the book.
* 2013: "Majalah Skot" is a 13-part RTM documentary about the Malaysian Army Corps and Regiments. Episode 11 is about the 21st Special Service Group.
* 2013: "Special Forces: Malaysia GGK" is a History Channel Asia documentary about ''Gerak Khas'' Selections.
* 2014: "Beret Hijau Musim 2" is an RTM TV series about the life of the season 1 protagonist in the 11th Special Service Regiment.
* 2015: " Bravo 5" is an action film based on true events about the five-man ''Gerak Khas'' reconnaissance patrol during the Second Malayan Emergency.
* 2017: "Asia's Special Forces with Terry Schappert" is a four-part History Channel documentary hosted by Terry Schappert about Malaysian ''Gerak Khas'', the Philippines' Marine Recon, Thailand's Marine Recon, the Philippines' Scout Ranger, the Sri Lankan Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol, and Taiwanese Marine Recon.
* 2024: "Toughest Forces on Earth with Dean Scott, Ryan Bates, and Cameron" is an eight-part Netflix docuseries that explores elite military forces around the world. The Malaysian ''Gerak Khas'' is featured in one of the episodes, showcasing their intense training and operational capabilities. Other episodes highlight elite units from various nations, including the Naval Special Operations Command of the Philippine Navy and the Mexican Special Forces.

See also

*Elite Forces of Malaysia
**Malaysian Army's 10th Parachute Brigade
** Royal Malaysian Navy's Naval Special Forces (PASKAL)
** Royal Malaysian Air Force's RMAF Special Forces (PASKAU)
** Malaysia Coast Guard's Special Task and Rescue (STAR)
** Royal Malaysia Police's ''Pasukan Gerakan Khas''

Notes

References

External links

Unofficial Website of Malaysian SOF

{{Terrorism in Malaysia

Airborne units and formations
Military counterterrorist organizations
1965 establishments in Malaysia
Military units and formations established in 1965
Malaysian Army
Special forces units and formations
Special forces of Malaysia
Counterterrorism in Malaysia
Malaysia Army corps and regiments