KUCHING: For three newly-minted auxiliary police personnel, the end of their nine-week Basic Auxiliary Police Course today was more than a formality.
It was a journey of personal growth, sacrifice and determination, each shaped by a different story, but united by the same sense of pride as they marched off the parade ground at Pulapol Kuching.
Sergeant (PB) Donny Ngang stood out as the Best Academic Student for Series 7/2025, a feat he had not imagined when he first stepped into training.
The former Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) member said adapting to the police environment was both refreshing and challenging, especially the drill culture which differed from the naval routines he was used to.
“Everything felt new again. It gave me a positive impact because I learned so many new things,” he said.
Now serving with Cahaya Mata Sarawak (CMS) in Miri, Donny revealed that his strongest motivation came from home: his eldest son.
“My son recently received a best academic award. He challenged me, so I took it seriously. I wanted to show him that learning never stops,” he added.
Juggling a packed training schedule, Donny studied late at night and in the early mornings, a habit he said helped him maintain consistency throughout the course.
While Donny’s strength lay in academics, Constable (PB) Joseph Jemis Umping excelled through experience.
Awarded Best Overall Trainee, Joseph spent 12 years as an army instructor in Perak, where discipline and physical endurance were daily norms.
“Challenges were there. The schedule was packed and the distance between training locations meant we were always running from one session to another,” he said.
But for Joseph, who only retired from military service recently, the familiar environment made the transition smoother.
“The discipline is the same. As long as you maintain your mindset, nothing is impossible,” he said.
Joseph, who will also serve with CMS, said he valued the structure imposed by the agency, whereby trainees completed their basic course before reporting for duty.
“As future trainees come in, I advise them to prepare themselves mentally and physically. Don’t wait until the course starts, get ready beforehand,” he said.
For Constable (PB) Demos Aga from Belaga, the experience was transformative.
Coming from the Murum area, Demos joined CMS in 2021 and spent more than four years under observation before being selected for the basic course.
He described himself as starting “from zero”, with no prior exposure to drill or structured training.
“I learned everything from scratch, drill, academic subjects and outdoor exercises. Even though it was hard, I stayed motivated,” he stated.
Among the toughest challenges for him were the strict restrictions imposed throughout the nine weeks.
Trainees were not allowed to meet their families, use phones or go on outings.
“It was difficult at first. No phone, no outing, no visiting family. But slowly, it taught us discipline and focus,” he said.
Despite his humble beginnings, Demos completed the course with confidence, grateful for the opportunity and proud of how far he had come.
“I didn’t know what to expect coming in,” he said. “But I tried my best, and thankfully, I made it.”
The trio were part of 267 personnel from 22 statutory bodies who completed the Basic Auxiliary Police Course Series 7/2025, marking a significant milestone in their careers.
As they step into their roles with CMS, they carry not just new badges but personal stories of resilience.
Demos reminded future recruits to stay disciplined and motivated.
“Prepare your mind and body and follow the rules. It will carry you far,” he said.
