The following article is submitted to the editorial of MalaysiaGazette by reader, Yeap Ming Liong.
The Malaysian Civil Defence Force has always been close to my heart. It is home to many of my brothers and sisters. I have personally seen the hard work, dedication and commitment of all of its personnel when it comes to serving the nation. This mantle of responsibility is stitched into the uniforms of each officer. They place nation before self and even more so during the Covid-19 pandemic where the Civil Defence Force worked alongside other frontliners to keep Malaysia safe.
I do understand that the call of duty comes first, but I have always been trying to push for all uniformed personnel to upskill themselves academically. Upskilling is always important. Not only does it improve our academic skills it also brings about further contribution to country.
So, it is truly pleasing to find out that the Civil Defence Force’s very own Deputy Chief Commissioner (Operations) Tuan Norhafifi Ismail will receive his PhD degree in Policy and Disaster Management during Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s 49th Convocation in Nilai, Selangor, next week. The 59 year old has also added another feather in his cap as he now becomes the first member of the force to achieve this milestone.
Possessing such an academic qualification will aid the Civil Defence Force greatly especially when they plan for operations relating to disaster management. Assets of the force are not only limited to physical machineries such as light utility trucks, ambulance vans and boats but also that of academic achievements.
Hence, I call on all uniformed personnel to draw inspiration from Tuan Norhafifi’s achievements. It may be difficult, but remember Rome, was not build in a day. In the case of Norhafifi, he himself climbed the academic ladder starting with only a Certificate in Disaster management way back in 1993.
My advice to all uniformed personnel in Malaysia is to not limit yourself. Find ways to go further in the academic arena. Education is one of the pillars of progress. Look into course that help with soft skills courses while also keeping an eye on long distance courses. Appreciate the value and importance of education
Now, as a young officer it is only natural for me to look up to my superiors hoping that one day I might achieve the success they have achieved. I must say that Norhafifi has proven to not only me, but all in the force that perseverance, dedication and commitment are values to hold on to when achieving academic and career success.
I would like to extend my congratulations to not only Tuan Dr Norhafifi for his academic success, but also to the Malaysian Civil Defence Force.
Yeap Ming Liong
Associate Captain (Malaysian Civil Defence Force)
