MUARA TEBAS, 24 March 2025 – Kampung Geobilt, Muara Tebas, located approximately 20 km from Kuching, has been identified as a proposed site for the establishment of the Naval Region 4 Headquarters (MAWILLA 4). This initiative aims to enhance maritime security and reinforce the presence of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) in Sarawak.

The Chief of Defence Force, General Datuk Hj Mohd Nizam bin Hj Jaffar, and the Chief of Navy, Admiral Datuk (Dr.) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, conducted a site survey alongside Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Sarawak, Datuk Dr. Hj Hazland bin Abang Hj Hipni, and Chairman of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), Tan Sri Datuk Amar (Dr.) Hj Abdul Aziz bin Dato Hj Hussain.

The selection of Muara Tebas as a potential site for MAWILLA 4 is based on several key factors, including financial feasibility, geographical advantages, tactical and technical considerations, and the well-being of personnel. The proposed site covers 38.55 acres of SEDC-owned land, with development expected to proceed following approval under 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13).

The construction of MAWILLA 4 is planned in two phases:

1. Phase 1 – Acquisition of land, construction of the headquarters, operational jetty, administrative buildings, and support facilities.
2. Phase 2 – Development of Armed Forces Family Housing (RKAT) and additional infrastructure.

If realized, MAWILLA 4 will significantly enhance RMN’s maritime surveillance and security capabilities in Sarawak and across Malaysia’s maritime zones. This project also reflects Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening national sovereignty, boosting investor confidence, and empowering local maritime communities.

Feasibility Study and Strategic Considerations

RMN Chief Admiral Datuk (Dr.) Zulhelmy previously stated that a feasibility study is being conducted by SEDC to assess the viability of this project. If approved, construction is estimated to take approximately three years from the approval date.

He also highlighted that the Muara Tebas naval base has the potential to serve as a strategic transit point for RMN submarines due to its natural 14-meter water depth, making it suitable for submarine operations. However, he noted that turning the base into a full-fledged forward operations hub for submarines would require further assessment.

Strengthening Sarawak’s Maritime Defence

The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) are confident that the establishment of MAWILLA 4 will reinforce RMN’s presence in Sarawak, ensuring greater territorial sovereignty and improved oversight of maritime economic resources.

The site visit was also attended by:

• Eastern Field Commander, Lieutenant General Dato’ Mohd Sofi bin Md Lepi
• Eastern Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Dato’ Khir Junaidi bin Idris
• Assistant Chief of Staff, Defence Operations and Training, Major General Dato’ Indera Zahari bin Mohd Ariffin
• Assistant Chief of Staff, Defence Logistics, Major General Dato’ Abdul Aziz bin Abu Hassan

📷 Image Credit: Chief of Defence Force Office

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