The roles of the security forces in the first Malayan emergency, An analysis

Dublin Core

Description

By the end of February 1948, the MCP began their offensive by conducting hostilities, strikes and the intimidation of the people. During this period the BMA were collecting evidence against the Communist activities to curb the insurrection. Finally the government decided upon the State of Emergency to fight against the insurgents on 16 June 1948 with the killing of three Europeans managers in Sungai Siput, Perak and other series of murders and acts of sabotage happening in Malaya. Various actions were taken by the government to boost the security forces strength including the forming of Home Guard and the expansion of the police force such as the Special Constable, the Auxiliary Police, the Jungle Squads and the Special Branch. The Royal Air Force was also diversifying its role with the introduction of helicopters and its employment had enhanced the deployment of troops and air transportation of foods and equipment deep inside the jungle.

The government through Lt Gen Sir Harold Briggs introduced the Briggs Plan to deter and control the population from giving supports to the insurgents in new settlement areas called 'New Villages'. In 1952, the ground operations were intensified when Sir Gerald Templer took over command as the Director of Operation. He emphasized on 'Hearts and Mind' operation to get the support from the population in fighting against the insurgents. During this period the security forces were able to kill nearly 2,340 communists while the security forces suffered 937 killed. Finally on 17 July 1960, the government officially declared the end of the first emergency in Malaya.

Creator

Mej Abd Malik Bin Jiran

Source

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
University of Malaya
PL5065 1999 Abdmj

Date

1999

Contributor

kelly

Format

Project Paper

Identifier

A515625236

Citation

Mej Abd Malik Bin Jiran, “The roles of the security forces in the first Malayan emergency, An analysis,” Rimbunan: Pangkalan Data Pengajian Melayu, accessed February 3, 2026, https://rimbunan.nusa.my/rimbun/items/show/14697.