Pasukan Sukarelawan Malaysia (RELA) was established on 11 January 1972 with the effective of (Essential Powers) Emergency Act 1964 Essential Rules (Ikatan Relawan Rakyat) (Amendment) 2005.
RELA's establishment enable the masses to volunteer and be a member of a volunteer force to preserve and maintain the national peace and security.
Under Section 2 of the (Essential Powers) Emergency Act 1964, the Yang Di Pertuan Agong has given the consent to approve the Essential Rules (Amendment) 2005) (Ikatan Relawan Rakyat) with effect from 01 February 2005. This rule has given certain powers to RELA Officers in tackling Illegal Immigrants (PATI).