Malaysia's Elite Forces: Who Is the Most Elite?
Malaysia's Elite Forces: Who Is the Most Elite?
Published: 26 October 2025 · By: PomenKereta.com
1. Malaysia is home to several highly trained elite units, each designed to tackle specific types of threats. These forces handle missions such as counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, reconnaissance and covert operations. They often undergo training with world-renowned special forces including the British SAS and US Navy SEALs.
2. VAT 69, under the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), is among the oldest and most respected elite units. Formed in 1969, it was modelled after the British SAS to fight communist insurgents in dense jungles. Today, VAT 69 continues to excel in jungle warfare, anti-terror and tactical reconnaissance operations.
3. The Special Action Unit (UTK) focuses on urban tactical operations such as hostage situations, high-risk raids, and VIP protection. UTK officers are trained to act fast and precisely in confined spaces, making them Malaysia’s equivalent of a SWAT team.
4. The Grup Gerak Khas (GGK) of the Malaysian Army, known as “Commandos,” is legendary for its extreme physical and mental endurance training. GGK personnel specialise in sabotage, guerrilla warfare, reconnaissance and infiltration behind enemy lines. Their “Hell Week” training is infamous for breaking all but the toughest candidates.
5. PASKAL (Naval Special Forces) of the Royal Malaysian Navy operates mainly in maritime environments. They protect offshore oil rigs, shipping lanes and conduct underwater demolition or hostage rescue at sea. PASKAL units are considered among the best-trained naval commandos in Southeast Asia.
6. PASKAU (Air Force Special Forces) from the Royal Malaysian Air Force specialises in airfield defence, combat rescue and airborne operations. They are also trained in forward air control, guiding airstrikes with precision in support of ground forces.
7. When comparing training difficulty, GGK is considered the toughest, with weeks of physical and psychological stress testing. PASKAL focuses more on tactical and technical precision, while VAT 69 and UTK specialise in jungle and urban combat respectively. PASKAU bridges air-ground coordination during high-risk missions.
8. Internationally, GGK and PASKAL have earned recognition for their professionalism. GGK frequently trains with elite forces from the US, UK and Australia, while PASKAL received praise for anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden. VAT 69 also gained international respect for its historical success against communist insurgents.
9. In terms of equipment, PASKAL and GGK use advanced tactical gear for their operations. UTK employs cutting-edge breaching tools and communication systems for urban combat. All units constantly upgrade their gear and tactics to adapt to modern threats.
10. Overall, GGK and PASKAL are often regarded as Malaysia’s most elite due to their rigorous training and international recognition. However, every unit plays a vital role — whether on land, at sea, or in the air — united by one mission: to defend Malaysia with courage, skill and sacrifice.
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