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TAWAU: The National Defence Strategic Plan (PSPN) 2026 programme held at SK Bergosong on Pulau Sebatik on Thursday serves as an integrated strategy by the Malaysian Army to strengthen the social fabric and security in border areas.

Eastern Field Commander Lt Gen Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi said the event was the first PSPN programme for 2026 in Sabah and part of 39 activities planned throughout the year in Sabah and Sarawak.

He said PSPN 2026-2030 is a rebranding of the Defence Ministry Strategic Plan (PSM) 2021-2025, which emphasises Core 4 on strengthening Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) to enhance public awareness on shared responsibility in defending national sovereignty through the Total Defence (HANRUH) concept.

Mohd Sofi said the Whole of Government, Whole of Society (WoGoS) approach highlighted the need for involvement from all parties, including local communities, especially in Pulau Sebatik as one of the main entry points along the Malaysia-Indonesia border with an important role in security control and sovereignty protection.

He said the programme involved cooperation between various security and government agencies, including the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, local authorities and the Sabah government, while activities included medical and dental treatment services, distribution of 20 food aid boxes, donation of carpets to the school surau and the Rahmah Sales programme.