BEAUFORT: The Army’s Eastern Field Command (PMTTD) held a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Mini Carnival at Dataran Bagandang on Saturday to promote greater public understanding of the Malaysian Army’s role while strengthening ties with the local community.
The event was officiated by Eastern Field Commander Lt Gen Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi and attracted a large crowd.
Visitors enjoyed exhibitions showcasing the Army’s assets and capabilities, Territorial Army (Askar Wataniah) recruitment promotions, military band performances, unarmed combat demonstrations, children’s activities and other interactive programmes.
Mohd Sofi said the carnival supported the implementation of the National Defence Strategic Plan (PSPN) 2026–2030 while enhancing public understanding of the Army’s role and responsibilities during peacetime.
He said the programme also served as a platform to strengthen the Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society (WoGoS) approach through collaboration with various government agencies.
A total of 18 government and private agencies participated in the carnival, offering exhibitions, public awareness and educational programmes, welfare services, and the Madani Rahmah Sale.
“The participation of these agencies not only enlivened the programme but also benefited the public by providing information, services and essential goods at affordable prices,” he said.
Mohd Sofi said the Army hoped such programmes would further strengthen its relationship with the community and enhance public confidence in the Armed Forces as the country’s defender and a strategic partner in community development.
Responding to reporters, he said the carnival also aimed to expose children and youths to the Army’s role and encourage them to consider a military career.
“We thank parents for bringing their children, including teenagers, to the programme. They showed great interest in the exhibitions, especially the opportunity to board Army vehicles,” he said.
Visitors also showed strong interest in exhibitions by the Fire and Rescue Department, Prisons Department, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the Health Ministry.
Also present were Klias assemblyman Datuk Isnin Aliasnih, Beaufort Hospital Director Dr Suratnam and other invited guests.
