Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) is reviewing its training modules and procedures, particularly those involving the Reserve Officer Training Unit (PALAPES), to identify and rectify any shortcomings following the death of a cadet last year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief of Defence Force General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman stated that the review encompasses regulations, procedures, and the scope of training activities, with a focus on physically demanding components such as live-fire drills, combat training, physical exercises, and marching. He emphasized that all military training activities must adhere strictly to established procedures and guidelines, despite their rigorous nature.
General Malek Razak highlighted that military training is conducted within clear boundaries to prevent breaches of guidelines or actions exceeding procedures. He reassured that internal mechanisms are in place to take necessary action if such breaches occur. This statement was made during his visit to Pos Tanjung Sepang.
The review aims to improve training modules to eliminate elements of excess or improper conduct during exercises. MAF remains committed to ensuring that training is conducted professionally, with discipline and safety, while achieving the goal of building physical and mental resilience.
The review follows the recent charging of three armed forces instructors at the Kota Tinggi Sessions Court for causing the death of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) PALAPES officer cadet Syamsul Haris Shamsudin, 22, in July last year. MAF has pledged full cooperation with authorities to ensure the welfare and rights of those involved are protected in line with principles of justice and sound governance.
Cadet Syamsul Haris passed away at Hospital Kota Tinggi on July 28, 2025, after undergoing training in Ulu Tiram. His remains were laid to rest at the Kampung Rinching Ulu Islamic Cemetery in Semenyih, Selangor. The High Court ordered a second post-mortem, which was conducted on August 30, 2025, at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, before he was reburied the same day.
On December 2, 2025, the Attorney-General's Office directed that the case be reclassified under Section 302 of the Penal Code for further investigation by the Royal Malaysia Police before charges were filed in court.