KUALA LUMPUR: Ever considered joining the military? A two-day programme might offer you a glimpse into what it takes to be a soldier.
A young commando, known only by the nickname 'Helang,' shared his journey of training to join the elite Special Forces Commandos (Paskau) during the "24 Hours as a Soldier" programme, which offered participants a glimpse into life with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Special Forces.
Organised by the Defence Ministry's Strategic Communications Unit (UKS) and the RMAF, the programme provided an insider's view into the life of these elite commandos at the Jugra Air Base.
"It's impossible for candidates to complete the selection training for Paskau if they are physically and mentally weak. Only a few resilient candidates manage to pass the tests each year compared to the hundreds who begin the process," said Helang.
Reflecting on the arduous journey, he added: "It was sheer agony, brother. Four months of 'hell on earth.' Many ended up like 'vegetables,' withdrawing because they couldn't endure the gruelling tests.
"Not just obstacle runs—every candidate must complete a 160-kilometre endurance march with weapons and full combat gear. Many fainted or collapsed, kissing the ground from exhaustion. Sleep was scarce, and the test had to be completed within a strict time frame."
In addition to endurance marches, candidates face swamp survival challenges, basic jungle commando training, infiltration reconnaissance exercises, and sniper qualification tests.
"Some tests intentionally inflict injuries to ensure candidates can withstand pain and remain silent if captured or tortured by enemies. This is not abuse or bullying by trainers but a necessary method to build the mental resilience of Paskau commandos. Their mission demands the willingness to sacrifice everything to protect national secrets," he explained.
For Helang, earning the blue beret at the Paskau Blue Beret Award Ceremony was a moment of profound achievement.
"It's a personal milestone to be part of Malaysia's elite commandos. Paskau stands on par with the Special Forces Regiment (GGK), Naval Special Warfare Forces (Paskal), and VAT 69 of the police," he said.
For media participants, the programme offered only a small taste of the challenges faced by Paskau members.
"What you experienced was maybe 10 per cent of what we go through. But it's enough to offer a glimpse into the life of a Paskau commando," Helang said.
He also addressed the misconception that Paskau commandos earn far more than regular soldiers.
"There may be a slight allowance advantage, but it matches the heavy workload and intensive monthly training. These efforts ensure Paskau commandos maintain peak physical fitness and readiness for high-risk missions," he explained.
Typically, Paskau commandos serve until the mandatory retirement age of 40 before transitioning to roles as trainers or team commanders, preparing the next generation of elite soldiers.
Further insight came from a Paskau sniper, regarded as one of the nation's best marksmen.
In his 30s and dressed in a camouflage "Ghillie Suit," the sniper demonstrated extraordinary accuracy, able to hit targets from as far as two kilometres away.
"Becoming a sniper requires more than talent and skill—it demands relentless training in secret locations. Snipers are selected from the cream of the crop within Paskau.
"Very few pass the sniper course due to the extreme conditions. Snipers must shoot from highly uncomfortable positions, endure harsh weather, navigate varied terrains, and master camouflage," he said.
Equipped with AW 308 rifles from the United Kingdom, Barret M107 rifles from the United States, and other advanced weaponry, Paskau snipers are trained for exceptional precision.
The programme highlighted the immense determination and dedication of these national heroes, who are frequently deployed on international missions, such as peacekeeping under the United Nations in Lebanon through Malcon-Unifil.
They are also skilled in rescue operations, including the 2005 Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter crash in Kapit, Sarawak; the 2007 rescue of six crew members from a Sikorsky S-61 Nuri helicopter crash in Genting Sempah; and the 2006 rescue of a BAE Hawk 208 RMAF pilot off the coast of Rompin, Pahang.
During the two-day stay at the RMAF Banting base, participants witnessed demonstrations of Paskau's capabilities, including hostage rescue from a bus, high-angle rescues, maritime operations, and night shooting using night-vision goggles.
Media participants were also tested with challenges such as shooting rifles and pistols, hill climbing, survival skills, cooking with military combat rations, obstacle courses, and abseiling.