BY day, Borniface Ringkai sits before a wall of CCTV screens, quietly tracking movements in and out of an apartment building in Kuching city.
But when night falls, the job takes on a different weight.
The 32-year-old security guard, still in his probation period, is part of a small team entrusted with keeping an entire residential community safe – a responsibility he says goes far beyond simply manning a guardhouse.
“People think it’s just about guarding property, but we are responsible for the safety of everyone living here,” he said.
Borniface has been on the job for about six to seven months, after years of moving between temporary and odd jobs in search of stability.
“I’ve worked in many places – hotels, training centres, even an oil palm plantation in Bintulu – but some jobs just didn’t suit me,” he shared.
While he now has a more stable role, he still occasionally takes on side jobs to supplement his income.
“This job helps, but sometimes, I feel like I could do more,” he added.
Despite settling into the role, Borniface admits he is still learning the ropes.
“There are many challenges because I’m new. The senior guards here have more experience and they guide me a lot. I’m still undergoing training,” he said.
More than routine duties
On paper, the job is straightforward – monitor surveillance cameras, record visitors, and ensure only authorised individuals enter the premises.
In practice, it demands constant alertness.
Guards must recognise residents, screen visitors, and stay vigilant against potential threats such as trespassing, burglary or robbery.
“We need to know who belongs here and who doesn’t. If someone suspicious comes in, we have to act,” he said.
They also enforce rules within the compound, including preventing outsiders from using residents-only facilities.
“When visitors come in, we ask who they are visiting before allowing entry. That’s part of keeping the place secure,” he explained.
Night shift realities
If daytime duties require attentiveness, night shifts demand courage.
Guards patrol the entire compound – often alone – ensuring everything remains secure in the quiet hours.
“Working at night carries more risks. We are not just staying in one place – we have to move around and check everything,” he said.
While Borniface is currently assigned to the morning shift, stories from senior guards hint at a more unsettling side of the job.
In the area surrounding the apartment complex, he said there is a mentally challenged man known for repeatedly attempting to trespass into the premises.
“He is well known around here and keeps trying to enter this place. That’s why we have to stay alert at all times because of situations like this. But we remain grounded. Whatever it is, we still have to do our job,” he said.
He also shared that senior guards had recounted numerous supernatural incidents said to have occurred around the area, although he has yet to experience any himself.
“Still, hearing those stories sends chills down my spine. But I have to be brave to carry out my responsibility,” he said.
Knowing their limits
Beyond security concerns, guards occasionally encounter situations that fall outside their scope.
Borniface said he was told about a past domestic disturbance within the residential area – but was advised that such matters are not for security personnel to handle directly.
“Our job is to observe and report. Some situations need to be handled by the proper authorities,” he explained.
Fortunately, he noted that no serious criminal incidents have occurred during his time there.
Finding meaning in the job
Despite the long hours and demands, Borniface finds fulfilment in the role.
“The best part is knowing residents can feel safe while they are at home resting or sleeping,” he said.
Over time, relationships between guards and residents have grown beyond simple greetings.
“Some residents come and chat with us, sometimes even invite us to join gatherings like barbecues. It makes us feel appreciated,” he shared.
For him, these small gestures make the challenges worthwhile.
A job that demands more
Reflecting on his experience, Borniface describes security work as one that requires discipline, courage and a strong sense of responsibility.
“You have to be brave and ready for anything. You cannot be afraid because this job comes with risks,” he said.
At the same time, he sees it as a viable option for those seeking steady employment.
“At the end of the day, work is work. Once our shift ends, another guard takes over. Everyone has their role,” he added.
And while stories of unexplained encounters continue to circulate among guards, one thing remains constant – their duty.
“We have to stay alert. That’s our responsibility,” he said.
