Silent Threats: Malaysia Strengthens Preparedness Against CBRNE Threats With "Mask Warriors"

KUALA LUMPUR,  April 21 (Bernama) -- In today’s evolving security landscape, the most dangerous threats are no longer those easily detected by radar, but those that emerge silently and often go unnoticed.

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) threats have become a major concern, not only in wartime scenarios, but also through domestic incidents within Malaysia.

Although the country has never faced a direct attack involving CBRNE weapons, past incidents such as the Sungai Kim Kim toxic waste contamination, as well as outbreaks like the Nipah virus and COVID-19, highlight the persistent and real nature of these threats.

Chief Engineer of the Royal Engineers Regiment (RAJD), Brigadier-General Sharuddin Mohd Noh, said the destructive potential of CBRNE hazards requires the Malaysian Armed Forces to remain constantly prepared through the 12 RAJD Squadron based at Terendak Camp, Melaka.

He said the elite unit, known as the “Mask Warriors”, comprises 80 to 100 specially trained personnel equipped to respond to CBRNE threats from multiple angles.

“The main competencies of our personnel include threat detection, decontamination processes, and forensic capabilities to collect samples in contaminated areas, particularly in incidents involving terrorism,” he told Bernama.

Sharuddin said CBRNE crisis management is no longer solely a military responsibility, but requires coordinated efforts across multiple agencies.

He emphasised that an effective response depends on intelligence sharing with the Royal Malaysia Police, technical expertise from the Department of Chemistry, and operational support from the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department.

“What is crucial in the CBRNE field is the ability to anticipate and predict threats early. In the event of contamination, our technology and expertise allow us to assess the rate of spread and threat levels, enabling a more efficient response,” he said.

To maintain readiness, members of the 12 RAJD Squadron undergo continuous high-intensity training, including “Exercise Mantis”, an integrated drill held at the Port Klang Cruise Terminal in the Port Klang Free Zone.

Their capabilities and inter-agency collaboration were recently showcased at the “CBRNE Arena” exhibition during the Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2026 Exhibition at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

It was officiated by Deputy Army Chief Lieutenant-General Datuk Mohamad Suria Saad yesterday.

-- BERNAMA