‘Glory should be our next destination': Snowdan supports Sandhurst plan, proposed revival of Sarawak Rangers
KUCHING (July 4): The proposal to revive the historic Sarawak Rangers and offer scholarships for Sarawakian youths to study at the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom has gained strong support from State Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
The Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) Youth Chief said the legacy of bravery once exemplified by the Sarawak Rangers in the 19th century still lives on, especially among surviving members and their descendants.
'While the idea is still taking shape in our minds and discussions, it is only right that it be revived sooner rather than later,' he said in a statement responding to a recent call by Works Minister and Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who proposed reviving the Sarawak Rangers as a dedicated security corps to bolster protection in inland and border regions.
Snowdan emphasised that the proposed corps would not compete with the Malaysian Armed Forces, but rather serve as a complementary force.
'I also agree with his (Nanta) view that this initiative would strengthen, not compete with, our existing military forces,' he said.
He also welcomed Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg's announcement that the state is exploring the possibility of offering scholarships for Sarawakian youth to pursue military training at Sandhurst.
Calling the initiative both 'realistic and within reach', Snowdan said it would significantly strengthen Sarawak's long-term security capacity across multiple domains.
'I strongly support this practical proposal, especially considering our vast physical landscape and the need for security in areas such as border protection, assets, the cyber realm, and the safety of our scattered rural populations,' he said.
Snowdan noted that the aim is not just military preparedness, but also cultivating leadership and professional knowledge applicable to enforcement and national security.
'We want to equip our youth with knowledge not just in military and police theory but also in leadership and areas such as commercial crime, surveillance, and tackling global security threats,' he said.
He added that Sarawak already has a solid institutional base, citing the Sarawak Coast Guard and the Unit for Other Religions and Security (UPKS) as examples of the state's proactive approach to internal security.
'Now we should focus on developing our personnel and leadership. Within our diverse population, we are not short of talents.
'Glory should be our next destination ― and Sandhurst is the journey.' lead Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Sarawak Rangers Snowdan Lawan
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