SIBU: All 400 soldiers of the 31st Brigade Infantry will have to undergo intensive training next year so that they can conduct more effective operations, especially at the Sarawak-Kalimantan border.
Its commander Brig-Gen Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng told reporters at a Christmas and New Year gathering yesterday that its soldiers need to undergo the training as they would be called anytime.
Lim, who was asked on the brigade’s plan for 2020, said the Sarawak-Kalimantan border is dotted with difficult terrain and is porous so its personnel must be up to the task.
“This brigade was formed in 2015 and it is my hope that for next year, we will conduct intensified training that will allow us to carry out effective operations,” he said.
On the strength of the force, he said it was always on the upward trend as the increase in personnel was important to carry out its operations at the border.
“We are not only always increasing our personnel but also our equipment and facilities. We also need a special facility for operational work,” he said.
Lim said the brigade’s scope of work also includes helping the public in emergencies, such as during floods.
On the function which was also attended by Lanang MP Alice Lau, he said it was one of its activities to foster closer rapport among the different races.
Among the activities held were singing performances by ‘D’Six’ — a band from 6th Border Regiment — and the presentation of Christmas goodies to the soldiers’ children.
