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The People's Volunteer Corps (Malay: Jabatan Sukarelawan Malaysia), abbreviated RELA, is a paramilitary civil volunteer corps formed by the Malaysian government. Their main duty is to check the travelling documents and immigration permits of foreigners in Malaysian cities, including tourists, visitors and migrants to reduce the increasing rate of illegal immigrants in Malaysia. RELA has the authority to deal with situations like policemen, such as raiding suspected streets or places such as factories, restaurants and even hotels. They are also fully authorised to conduct the interrogation and even detaining people who forgot to bring their travelling documents, like passports and/or working permits. Besides that they are also tasked with security works at times. During times of war, they are absorbed into the Malaysian Army as support groups despite their law enforcing duties. They are also tasked to do SAR works if needed.
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History
The People's Volunteer Corps started in circa 1960s. Its purpose was to guard against communists. It now serves as a strike force against illegal immigrants. It is 2.8 million strong and is composed of mostly untrained volunteers. In 2008 Rela was given charge of immigration detention centres.
Mission and Objective
To prepare, train, and maintain a volunteer force as the Nation's line of defence and to guard the welfare of the citizens of Malaysia.
To deploy and mobilise the volunteer force to reduce Illegal Immigrant and to assist other enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security throughout Malaysia.
Help preserve national security, peace and welfare of the Malaysian citizens and to reduce Illegal Immigrant
During War or Emergency
Strength
Personnel
Criticism
Human Rights Watch has called for People’s Volunteer Corps to be dissolved. They have accused it of violating human rights, conducting illegal raids and extortions.