By Subhatra a/p Sahtiya Murthi
In the serene surroundings of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), where the whispers of ancient trees blended with the youthful hum of academia, a young woman named Preetipa embarked on a journey that would challenge the prevalent notions about students entering uniformed bodies at the university level.
Preetipa picked the Suksis Corps, a well-known discipline and service group. Scepticism echoed through the corridors as she dressed in traditional Suksis garb. Many people anticipated that students enlisting in the uniformed forces would need help managing their time, attending courses, and completing assignments.
Preetipa, fearless of these assumptions, accepted the challenges of Suksis training. Even though her days were filled with drills, exercises, and community service, she always continued pursuing academic achievement. Contrary to popular opinion, Preetipa’s ability to integrate Suksis’ responsibilities with educational aspirations impressed many sceptics.
Preetipa pondered on her transformation trip as the sun set below the horizon, providing a beautiful light over the university campus.
“Many people underestimate Suksis. They believe we will gain nothing, but the truth is Suksis has many advantages. It’s not just about cramming in as much training as possible; it’s about evolving in ways you never anticipated,” she said.
Suksis did, indeed, provide more than meets the eye. It was more than just physical workouts and routines; it was a complex experience with various activities. Preetipa vividly remembered her first encounter with shooting exercises during the training. The surprising weight of the weapon, the precision required, and the adrenaline surge — it was an exciting experience that contradicted fundamental body preconceptions.
“In Suksis, every day is a new adventure,” Preetipa said, her eyes gleaming.
“Shooting was something I never thought I’d do, but it taught me focus, precision, and discipline — skills that extend far beyond the training grounds.”
Preetipa’s Suksis journey continues with the Ethics Camp immersion session. The Ethics Camp was out of the norm, delving into the complexities of ethics and self-management. Through thought-provoking conversations and real-life situations, Preetipa explored the ethical landscapes that would define her character.
“Ethics Camp was an eye-opener. It wasn’t just about following rules; it was about understanding why they were followed. It forced me to think, question, and eventually become more disciplined in my behaviours and judgments,” she said.
Preetipa’s discipline and talent had improved. Her dedication to Suksis activities and her academic excellence drew the attention of her peers and professors. The mood surrounding Suksis gradually changed from distrust to exhilaration. It became clear that the benefits of joining the Suksis Corps extended beyond personal development.
As the end of her Suksis training approached, Preetipa faced the pinnacle of her accomplishments. The challenges were immense, and the impediments were firm, yet she remained unaffected. Her ambition was motivated by her desire to become an Inspector of the Suksis Corps, and she looked forward to the day when the Suksis uniform would represent more than just duty but also achievement.
Preetipa shared her ideas with her fellow trainees during peaceful periods of meditation: “Over these three years in Suksis, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge encompassing self-discipline, self-management, and invaluable guidance from dedicated coaches. I didn’t get here alone; I had the help of other students who, like me, recognised an opportunity to improve our learning. Every move we perform has the potential to lead to progress, and we take each task seriously.”
Preetipa tackled challenges with elegance and perseverance during the latter rounds of Suksis training. Her rehabilitation as a Suksis Corps Inspector finally became the culmination of years of dedication and hard labour. The Royal Dean’s Award and the Faculty Academic Award were bestowed to her as she stood erect, decorated with the Suksis emblem, in recognition of her accomplishments inside and outside the classroom.
Preetipa reflected on her Suksis experience as a transforming chapter that defied expectations and smashed preconceptions when she returned to her Master’s. Her tale encouraged future students interested in careers in the armed services by proving that hard work, discipline, and a balanced approach could lead to success both on the Suksis training grounds and in the classroom. Preetipa’s tale reverberated throughout the school; a story of achievement, progress, and the seemingly infinite possibilities that emerge when one accepts the difficulties and opportunities that academic life provides.
- This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
