GERUP Gerak Khas, also known as the Special Service Group, is one of the world's toughest military units. Becoming a member is no easy feat.
A 25-year-old from Setapak, Chan Ming Youn, has beat all odds to become a member of the elite unit.
A graduate of Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology, Chan earned his Green Beret after undergoing 12 weeks of gruelling training.
"My parents did not support the idea of me joining the army and instead wanted me to get a degree and a job.
"However, it has always been my dream to serve and protect my country," he said.
To make his parents happy, he said he studied accountancy.
"While studying for my degree, I signed up as a reservist with the Territorial Army Regiment.
"As my longing (to serve in the army) grew during my stint as an army volunteer, I decided to apply to join the army as a cadet officer in 2022," said Chan, who is the youngest of three siblings.
After nine months of regular army training, he was posted to the 2nd Royal Ranger Regiment.
"From there, I enrolled as a candidate for the commando unit, GGK," he said.
Cha said his 12-week training stint at the Sungai Udang Army Camp in Malacca was the most challenging time of his life.
"My body was in immense pain and aching all over and covered with blisters and bruises
"The most difficult task was a 160km run with other recruits that left the soles of my feet inflamed and torn," he said.
Chan said the training could break a person mentally and physically but it could also make him strong and resilient.
On Sunday, Chan received the green beret, blue lanyard, and dagger that made him a commando from 21st GGK commander Adi Ridzwan Abdullah at the Sungai Udang camp.
Chan said his parents, who were present, were happy for him.
“I know they are proud of me although all they asked me was if I had eaten and was in good health. Those words were enough to affirm their support,” he said.
Adi said Chan was the first Malaysian Chinese in decades to pass out as a commando.
He said the last time there was a Malaysian Chinese commando was almost 20 years ago.
“We are happy to see this and we hope more non-Malays will join the armed forces,” he said. – April 30, 2024
