In the writer’s opinion, before this, the community at large has never heard of the term ‘Hanruh’. And the handful who have, almost certainly do not fully comprehend the concept in depth.
What is Hanruh? Is it a concept similar to ‘Islam Hadhari’ which was introduced by our leadership? Hanruh is a short form for ‘pertahanan menyeluruh’ (overall protection), which is a concept of protection which mobilizes the active role of non-military community.
Hanruh stresses on the importance of the protection of the nation to be the responsibility of not only the security forces, but also that of the general community.
The Hanruh concept was introduced in 1986 and has since become one of the core foundations of the National Security Policy, as well as a strategy applied in the protection of national interests. Components of Hanruh include the following:
a. National Vigilance
b. Solidarity and Unity of the community.
c. Public Vigilance
d. Economic Fortitude and
e. Psychological Resilience
National vigilance includes vigilance of the security forces as well as other security agencies, for the protection of lives and property, and the preservation of public safety.
In order to deliver this mandate, the security forces must have members who are trained, highly skilled and motivated, who are always on alert and prepared to face any possible threats.
The unity and harmony of our community, regardless of status, race, religion, culture or regionalism, is the main factor for our nation’s tranquillity. The stability of our national and cultural integrity and the absence of regionalism is the basis for the realization of Malaysia’s solidarity.
Public vigilance means the preparedness of civil agencies, private organisations, volunteer groups and the public at large, to provide means to protect the lives and properties of the community and the nation from the threat of war. They also need to become involved in efforts to guarantee the continued supply basic necessities during times of war, emergencies and disasters.
Economic fortitude means that both the government and the public in all economic sectors cooperate and collaborate to ensure that the nation’s economic strength and potential continues to be robust during times of peace, and is able to support the needs of security in times of war and emergency.
Psychological resilience means the mental tenacity which reflects absolute commitment and confidence in the nation’s sovereignty and security. It aims to build a Malaysian nation that possesses the psychological resilience which will enable them to face all manner of challenges and threats (source:www.navy.mil.my).
In the context of national security, the government has determined that the main objective of the National Security Policy is for the protection and defence of Malaysia’s interests, based upon the nation’s sovereignty, integrity of the federation and economic prosperity.
Allah Almighty says in Surah Anfal verse 60:
“Hence, make ready against them (the invading enemies) whatever force and war mount you are able to muster, so that you might raise fear in you enemies who are Allah’s enemies as well, and enemies other than them of whom you may be unaware, but of whom Allah is aware. And whatever you contribute in Allah’s cause will be repaid to you in full and you will not be wronged (suffer loss).”
As such, to ensure the success of this concept, steps in preparing the integrity and skills of non-military community for the purpose of overall protection, must play its role as early as possible.
Starting as early as the National Service Training (PLKN), youths must be made aware of this role, and followed by their involvement as members of reserve army group (PSS), Reserve Officer Training (Palapes) at institutions of higher learning, Volunteer Member Training Group (PLAS) at polytechnics, colleges and so on.
The continuity of training and exposure to these youths must be made a priority so that the necessary military knowledge becomes second nature to them and can be mobilized at any time depending on the nature of the internal national threat deemed appropriate with this concept.
Recently, the Deputy Prime Minister, acting as Defence Minister, wished to adapt and streamline the Hanruh concept in accordance with current requirements, not limited only to requirements arising with security threats such as wars, but is suitable for applications during events of natural disasters and energy crises.
In addition, a second modification will also be undertaken, which involves the expanded function to include the aspect of increasing the economic sector’s resilience to face the rush of globalisation, by creating and strengthening the nation’s mental resilience and fighting spirit in order to meet fierce competition in the world of business.
The third modification involves the aspect of its implementation within the community in order to encourage unity founded upon noble life values and shared community wellbeing. This aspect will be instilled continuously, as any rift in the community can become potential threats to the national harmony and prosperity.
Realising the importance of the citizens’ role in the nation’s security, implementation of the Hanruh concept is hoped to be able to help and support the nation’s armed forces in their role and responsibility in face of conflict, and ensure victory.
In addition, it will also ensure that economic and social activities continue to function as usual, with minimum interruption.
In conclusion, ‘the strength of security’ which is listed as one of the ten (10) Principals of ‘Islam Hadhari’ needs to be thoroughly understood, and efforts towards achieving these objectives need to be implemented continuously. Herein lays the responsibility of all parties, including citizens of our community loyal to the country. It does not lie solely on the shoulders of our leaders. |
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