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Category FAQs Search : Rajang Security Command (RASCOM)

Question: Responsibilities of RASCOM

Answer: RASCOM is well-organised structure with a civilian as the Chief, the Chief Minister Rahman Ya’kub. It is supported by and manned by very dedicated soldiers, police and civilians who played a major role in bringing down the communist threat and eventually led to the final surrender of the communists in Sarawak. The RASCOM covered the areas of Sibu, Kapit and Sarikei Divisions, a total area 22, 603 square miles and a total population of 969, 909 which came directly under the administration of the Chief Minister, as the State Director of Operation. The responsibility of RASCOM was to maintain law and order and to preserve public security, safety and to ensure the smooth functioning of the government machinery. The specific terms of references of RASCOM were as follows:

1. To coordinate the general conduct of operations.
2. To coordinate the activities of the civilian departments to ensure their effectiveness and due emphasis are given to emergency efforts.
3. To institute such measures as are necessary for securing public safety including the raising of Vigilante Corps.
4. To carry out activities aimed at mobilising the people in support of the government and against the communist.
5. To institute such measures as are necessary for the successful prosecution of the Emergency, including:
- Regrouping and resettlement.
- Tenants registration.
- The control of supplies – Food Denial Operation.
- The restriction of movement of people .
- The eviction of people unlawfully in occupation of land.
- The control of publication.
- The control of firearms, ammunitions and explosives.

(Source: Alfred Jabu anak Numpang, Dedication & Loyalty Beyond Compare - Book, 05 Oct 2021)