I first learned about the Rhodesian connection to the Malayan Emergency while researching the Fiji Battalion in Batu Pahat. It turns out the two stories are linked.
Following the departure of "C" Squadron of the Special Air Service — an all-white Southern Rhodesian unit that served in Malaya between 1951 and 1953 — Southern Rhodesia was not involved again until early 1956.
In early 1956, the 1st Battalion, The Rhodesian African Rifles (RAR) was tasked to relieve the Northern Rhodesia Regiment in Johore. The RAR was not a new unit. Originally formed in 1916 as the Rhodesian Native Regiment, it had fought for Britain in East Africa during World War I and contributed to the Burma campaign in World War II.
The RAR was different in composition. It comprised black soldiers and warrant officers led by white officers. They were stationed in Johor between 1956 and 1958 — for two full years.
Upon arrival, they redeployed to Batu Pahat, where they camped with the Fiji Infantry Regiment. According to Wikipedia's record of the Southern Rhodesian involvement, a spirit of camaraderie quickly developed between the Fijian and Southern Rhodesian soldiers. This is understandable — both were African-Pacific Commonwealth units far from home, operating in the same difficult jungle terrain.
During the four years of Fijian involvement from 1952 to 1956, some 1,600 Fijian troops served and 25 died in combat in Malaya. The RAR then took over part of that legacy in Johor.
I am currently trying to find more personal accounts from Batu Pahat residents who remember the Rhodesian camp. If you have any family stories or photos from 1956-1958 in Johor, please share in the comments.
References:
- Wikipedia - Southern Rhodesian military involvement in the Malayan Emergency
- Wikipedia - Malayan Emergency - Rhodesian African Rifles stationed in Johor 1956-1958
- Wikibooks - The Story of Rhodesia - RAR tasked to relieve NRR in Johore in early 1956
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