By: Zaki Salleh
IPOH: Politeknik Ungku Omar (PUO) has once again been given the honour of hosting the Malaysian Polytechnic Territorial Army Annual Camp (MALPTAAC) Series 17 for the year 2026.
The annual training programme is being held from June 1 to 15 and involves 800 students, 40 lecturers and 100 military personnel.
MALPTAAC is a collaborative programme between the Department of Polytechnic and Community College Education (JPPKK), the Malaysian Army Reserve Force Headquarters, and the 503 Territorial Army Regiment.
The opening ceremony was officiated by JPPKK Director-General, Dr Haji Shamsuri Abdullah at Padang Astaka PUO.
This year’s edition holds special significance as PUO also hosted the inaugural MALPTAAC 25 years ago.
Since its introduction in 1999, MALPTAAC aims to shape character, discipline, leadership and patriotism among polytechnic students.
Participants will undergo various activities, including drill training, obstacle courses, shooting exercises, multi-relay events, sports and the Jiwa Murni programme with the local community.
According to Dr Shamsuri, MALPTAAC serves as an important platform in producing competent TVET graduates with strong discipline and identity.
The organisation of the MALPTAAC Series 17 reflects the continued commitment of Malaysian Polytechnics and the Malaysian Armed Forces in strengthening national human capital development.
