PETALING JAYA: Some 15 retired members of the police force's Very Able Troopers (VAT 69) Commando gathered at an event today to share their stories during the Communist insurgency in Malaysia which took place between 1968 and 1989.
A retired Sub-Inspector, Mustafa Zainal, who was among the first batch of the VAT 69 Commando said that the unit was first established in October 1969 following the rise of the Malayan Communist Party (CPM).
He recalled that from over 1,000 candidates nationwide, only 60 were selected to be part of the first batch of the commando unit.
"The recruitment was conducted strictly for those aged between 20 to 25 years.
"Apart from being physically healthy, the candidates must also past the physical fitness test which include finishing a 3.2km run in 60 minutes, 60 sit-ups in two minutes, 33 push-ups, 12 chin-ups, and completing a 50km route march within seven hours maximum while carrying a 50kg backpack.
"It was a tough test," said the 62-year-old.
Mustafa added that the difficulties that they had to face while on duty were however more challenging as a large number of operations they involved in were conducted in the jungle.
"During those days, our main task was to track down and terminate the communist terrorists.
"Due to this reason, a large number of the operations were conducted deep in the jungle, with each operation lasting for at least two weeks up to three months.
"Being forced to be in the thick jungle in a long period of time was both mentally and physically challenging. This is especially true during rainy season," he said.
Mustafa said that they were also forced to carry heavy weapons and equipment during each operation apart from water and food such as rice.
He, however, said that he never regretted his decision to join the VAT 69 Commando.
"In fact I'm honoured to be able to contribute something to the country," he said.
Meanwhile, the VAT 69 Commando Veterans Association president Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said that the people of the older generations have more "jati diri" (self-worth) and fighting spirit.
"There is a need for the government to introduce programme or activities that can develop self-esteem and the fighting spirit while also instil patriotism among the youth today.
"The programmes and activities can be organised through various existing platform such the schools or through the community where they live," he said.
Rashid, who went on compulsory retirement in January after serving the police force for more than 41 years, joined the VAT 69 Commando in 1978.
He previously held positions as the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) Security Force commander and Sabah Police Commissioner with the rank of Acting Commissioner of Police (CP).
The gatherings of the VAT 69 Commando Veterans was jointly organised by the veterans' association and MK Land Holdings in appreciation of their contribution to the country in conjunction with the coming Merdeka Day celebration.