Factors Contributing to Small Unit Cohesion in Malaysian Infantry Battalions

The level of cohesion in platoons of Malaysian infantry battalions has not been measured. This measurement is critical to maintain combat readiness, improve the quality of training, and streamline administration in infantry units. Factors that contribute to platoon cohesion need to be identified and evaluated. Thus, literature has suggested four contributing factors to be evaluated, namely, peer bonding, teamwork, caring leader, and competent leader. The quantitative research method was used. Primary data were collected using an online questionnaire platform that was developed using the Google Forms application. 14 rifle platoons of two standard infantry battalions of the Royal Malay Regiment were selected for primary data collection. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 26.0 in which descriptive, correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis were performed. Descriptive analysis has found that the level of each variable was high, and this has shown that the variables has occurred at a high level (or perceived to be high) among infantry platoon members. Meanwhile, correlation analysis has found that all independent variables have a strong relationship with platoon cohesion. Finally, multiple linear regression analysis has found that competent leader has made the strongest contribution in explaining the variations in platoon cohesion. The second highest significant variable was teamwork. Meanwhile, peer bonding and caring leader have contributed very minimal to the variations of platoon cohesion. It can be summarized that these four variables have a substantial contribution to the variations of platoon cohesion. As a conclusion, all research objectives and hypotheses were evaluated and statistically proven.