Role of the Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM)

The Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM) is a national emergency response and civil protection agency under the Prime Minister's Department. It plays a vital role in assisting communities before, during, and after disasters, emergencies, crises, and rescue operations, in accordance with the Malaysia Civil Defence Force Act 1951 (Act 221).

Key Functions of APM

• Carry out rescue, protection, and humanitarian assistance operations in response to enemy threats, disasters, and emergencies.
• Provide emergency response and humanitarian aid services throughout Malaysia.
• Assess and disseminate information, advice, and warnings to the public regarding enemy threats, emergencies, and disasters.

APM also operates the Civil Defence Special Force (PASPA), which specialises in:

• Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)
• High-risk and hazardous search and rescue operations
• Scuba diving rescue operations
• Air, jungle, and water rescue operations

APM also conducts various civil defence and safety development programmes for schools, higher education institutions, and the wider community, including:

• Tunas Pertahanan Awam (TUSPA) – Primary Schools
• Kadet Sekolah Pertahanan Awam (KASPA) – Secondary Schools
• Pasukan Institusi Pertahanan Awam (PISPA) – Diploma and Equivalent Programmes
• Kor Siswa Siswi Pertahanan Awam (Kor SISPA) – Bachelor's Degree and Equivalent Programmes