(CARAT).|alt= The Special Tasks and Rescue (STAR) command comprises specialised units, each requiring a unique selection and training process tailored to its specific maritime mission. Currently, three distinct training pipelines are available to Malaysia Coast Guard (MCG) personnel seeking to join the STAR command: •
MCG STAR Team Pipeline: Designed for candidates aspiring to become maritime special operations commandos. This track focuses on high-intensity combat, counter-terrorism, and unconventional warfare. •
MCG Rescue Diver Pipeline: Dedicated to personnel aiming to qualify as specialised divers. This pipeline emphasises underwater search and recovery, hull inspections, and technical diving skills. •
MCG Rescue Swimmer Pipeline: Tailored for candidates seeking qualification as heliborne rescue swimmers. This programme emphasises emergency medical response and life-saving techniques within open-water environments. To qualify for this track, candidates must first successfully complete the MCG Rescue Diver Pipeline before undergoing additional advanced training. The selection and training programmes for these units are outlined as follows: In August 2025, the Malaysia Coast Guard (MMEA) transitioned to an independent special forces selection process. The current stages are outlined below: This
Kursus Pra Asas Komando STAR was a critical filtering mechanism within the MAF Special Forces selection process, designed to identify and eliminate candidates lacking the physical or mental resilience required for elite training. The programme adhered to the stringent standards of the 21st Special Service Group (RGK), PASKAL, and PASKAU. In the previous orientation course, candidates were required to pass three tests: • Test 1: Physical Test (Water) • Test 2: Physical Test (Land) • Final Test: Fitness Test
Pre-Basic Commando Course (2 weeks) In the updated Malaysia Coast Guard (MCG) STAR Team selection pipeline, it has not been officially publicised whether candidates are still required to undergo a separate two-week Pre-Basic Commando Course. However, historically, this phase was a critical component of the training progression. Throughout this course, trainees will be equipped with the skills necessary to build mental and physical strength, fostering a sense of
esprit de corps in anticipation of the forthcoming
Basic Commando Course. The curriculum includes instruction on basic small arms operation, map reading, compass and protractor navigation, basic unarmed combat, swimming, long-distance running, navigation techniques, survival strategies, and fundamental marksman training. Additionally, the training covers essential areas such as first aid, resistance to interrogation, and amphibious assault tactics.
Basic Commando Course – STAR Team (16 weeks) In the updated MCG special forces selection pipeline, candidates are required to complete the 16-week Basic Commando Course – STAR Team. This revised curriculum is a strategic integration of the 12-week MAF Basic Commando Course, a four-week Water Competency programme, and the six-week Special Task Introduction Course (which was previously a separate, post-graduation requirement).
Malaysia Coast Guard Rescue Diver pipeline Since the establishment of Rescue Divers in 2009, the Malaysia Coast Guard (MCG) has consistently sent its officers and sailors for training at the
US Naval Dive and Salvage Training Center in
Panama City, FL. Subsequently, recognising the geographical proximity, MCG began sending its rescue diver candidates to the Japan Coast Guard's training centre. In 2014, the curriculum, initially derived from the US Coast Guard
Aviation Survival Technician, was enriched by incorporating elements from the Japan Coast Guard
Special Rescue Team, including underwater rescue in confined spaces. The training programme continued to be conducted under the Japanese Coast Guard. In 2023, MCG took a significant step by organising its first rescue diver selection and training, with supervision provided by a representative from the Japan Coast Guard. The MCG Rescue Divers' pipeline spans approximately three months and is structured into three stages:
Initial Test and Medical Test This stage is divided into two components: the Rescue Diver Qualification Test and the Compression Chamber Qualification Test.
Rescue Diver Qualification Test (2 weeks) The Special Tasks and Rescue Team administers the test, commonly known as the
Ujian Kelayakan Penyelam Penyelamat in Malay, over approximately two weeks. The evaluation utilises the physical training standards employed by Special Forces in Malaysia. This rigorous test is carried out at both garrisons of the Special Tasks and Rescue Assault Squadrons. •
Qualification phase (4 weeks) :Modelled after the
Water Competency Training of the Special Forces Selection. •
Pool phase (2 weeks) :Candidates receive theoretical instruction on rescue divers techniques, search and rescue procedures, surface water rescue, underwater rescue, rescue in confined spaces, and more. •
Practical phase: Port (1 week) :Candidates are sent to MCG Kemaman Maritime Zone HQ in
Kemaman,
Terengganu, where they undergo practical training at a naval port. •
Practical phase: Sea (1 week) :Candidates are subsequently deployed onboard a Coast Guard ship to the area around
Tioman Island, where they engage in practical training at sea. Throughout the Search and Rescue Diver Course, candidates are required to pass tests evaluating their diving abilities, underwater confined space rescue skills, and
SCUBA deep diving capabilities.
Graduation day Graduates of the Search and Rescue Diver Course are sent to the MCG Diving School, situated in the
Sultan Ahmad Shah Coast Guard Academy in
Kuantan,
Pahang. At this facility, they showcase their acquired skills and demonstrate rescue diver capabilities, including activities such as jumping from high platforms and executing sea rescues of downed pilots. After successfully passing all aspects of the training, these divers are awarded the MCG Rescue Swimmer Insignia. Subsequently, they are stationed at any airbase operated by the Malaysian Coast Guard. ==Equipment==