MAF expands women's roles in command and leadership positions

The Malaysian Armed Forces is actively increasing female representation in strategic command and staff roles, moving beyond traditional support functions to enhance operational readiness.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Armed Forces is expanding the role of women in military leadership, particularly in command and staff appointments.

Chief of Staff at the MAF Headquarters Lt Gen Datuk Seri Muhammad Huzaimi Sabri said this shift moves women beyond administrative and medical functions into strategic areas.

“There is a concerted effort to increase the percentage of female officers in ‘command and staff’ roles,” he said at the Malaysian Armed Forces International Symposium (MAFIS) 2026.

He stated this reflects a broader effort to enhance capability and sustain operational effectiveness through a more inclusive approach.

Malaysia’s peacekeeping contributions remain a key component of its Women, Peace and Security agenda.

The country deploys one of the largest contingents of female peacekeepers under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

Muhammad Huzaimi said WPS principles are increasingly applied in addressing both traditional and non-traditional security challenges.

Female personnel are playing greater roles in civil-military cooperation teams engaging local communities during military operations other than war.

In cyber defence, the MAF’s Cyber and Electromagnetic Command is actively recruiting and promoting female technical experts.

“When WPS is effectively integrated, it improves understanding of operating environments,” he said.

He added it also enhances engagement with communities and strengthens the credibility of domestic and international missions.

The WPS agenda has evolved into a core operational requirement for a modern force.

“This is not about changing what we stand for, but strengthening how we deliver,” Muhammad Huzaimi said.

The two-day MAFIS 2026 symposium began with more than 200 participants.

It brings together senior military officers, policy advisers, academics and WPS experts from Malaysia and abroad.

The symposium serves as a platform to strengthen engagement and strategic dialogue on advancing WPS principles within defence institutions.

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