1 June 1948
Less than three years after the Second World War ended, Communist terrorists began a bold policy of hit-and-run violence in Malaya. They were officially known among the Allies as 'CT's'. Britain declared an emergency in Malaya in June 1948 that would not be lifted until July 1960. Britain appealed to Australia and New Zealand for assistance.
In 1955, Australia agreed to increase its military assistance. This involved contributing to a Malaysian-based Commonwealth joint military force. The primary role of what became known as the Far East Strategic Reserve (FESR) was to deter communist aggression. The Royal Australian Navy contributed:
- 2 destroyers or frigates
- an annual visit by an aircraft carrier
- additional ships as needed.
In 1954, the South East Asia Treaty Organisation (SEATO) formed as an international alliance. They intended to combat the growing threat from communist insurrection. Between 1955 and 1960, 13 RAN ships served with the Strategic Reserve. Some of these attachments were for short periods, involving participation in SEATO exercises.
More generally, however, an attachment lasted between six and nine months. Seven members of RAN ships were killed accidentally or died of other causes while serving with the Strategic Reserve.
The new nation of Malaysia formed in 1963. Indonesia feared that the new federation was a disguised British attempt to continue colonial rule. They opposed the union and attempted to destabilise it, in a conflict known as Confrontation, or ‘Konfrontasi’. The RAN presence in Malaysian waters acted as a deterrent to outright war. However, especially in the period of 1964 to 1965 Indonesia continued:
- harassment
- cross-border incursions
- exchange of gunfire.
In December 1964, the minesweeper HMAS Teal was under the command of Lieutenant Keith Murray. It was patrolling the Singaporean Strait when it was fired upon with automatic weapons by an unlit vessel. The attacking vessel (one of two) then shaped course for Indonesian waters. It was however overpowered and arrested by Teal following a further small-arms engagement. For his coolness and good judgement during this, and a previous, interception, Lieutenant Murray was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. It was the only award for gallant or distinguished service made to the RAN during the conflict.
Confrontation finally ceased in August 1966, when Indonesia and Malaysia signed a peace treaty in Bangkok.