NATIONAL security threats are no longer confined to conventional warfare, with cyberattacks, hybrid warfare, drones, artificial intelligence and growing geopolitical uncertainty presenting new challenges to the country.
Raja Muda Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail said future defence challenges would involve not only physical battlefields but also the digital space and the battle for public perception.
He said this made it increasingly important for young Malaysians to be comfortable with technology, assess information carefully and understand developments involving national security and geopolitics.
“Hold firmly to the principles of loyalty, courage and honesty in every action,” he said.
Tuanku Syed Faizuddin, who is also Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), said this at the Royal Parade and Presentation of Commissions to cadet officers of the Public Universities Reserve Officers Training Corps (PALAPES UA) at the university on Saturday.
He also warned the young officers against being influenced by propaganda, fake news and narratives that could threaten the country’s peace and harmony.
The Raja Muda urged them to uphold the reputation of the institution of the Malay Rulers, the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), their university and the respective services they represented.
“Set an example through your words, conduct and actions. Every officer carries not only the name of an organisation, but also the dignity and trust of the nation.
“Remember, defending the country is not merely a duty, but a commitment and responsibility to the homeland,” he said.
Tuanku Syed Faizuddin also congratulated the PALAPES cadets who completed their training and were commissioned as junior officers in the Malaysian Army’s Territorial Army Regiment, the Royal Malaysian Navy Volunteer Reserve and the Royal Malaysian Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
A total of 1,885 cadet officers from 20 public universities nationwide received their commissions at the ceremony.
Of these, 1,218 were commissioned into the Territorial Army Regiment, 389 into the Royal Malaysian Navy Volunteer Reserve and 278 into the Royal Malaysian Air Force Volunteer Reserve.
The ceremony also saw 39 top cadets receive the Honorary Sword Award in recognition of their leadership, discipline, achievements and performance during their PALAPES training.
UniMAP hosted the 44th Royal Commissioning Ceremony and Presentation of Commissions to PALAPES UA cadet officers for the first time this year.
The university is also holding exhibitions of military assets and defence demonstrations for the public at its Parade Ground and Dataran Boulevard from September 10 to 12.
The programme features land, naval and air defence assets, along with demonstrations including free-fall parachuting, unarmed combat, survival skills and military dog displays. – September 12, 2026
