The Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) East Campus Hall echoed with pride and discipline on 17 December as Kor Siswa Pertahanan Awam (Kor SISPA) UNIMAS held its Rank Commissioning Ceremony, recognising the dedication and commitment of its cadets.
The ceremony was attended by five Associate Officers, six Young Officers (YO) and 146 Cadet Officers (PKS), marking a significant milestone for members of the SISPA Corps following the completion of their training term.
Deputy Commandant of Kor SISPA UNIMAS, Associate Colonel (PA) Dr. Nasriman Abdul Rahman, said the awarding of ranks serves as formal recognition of the contributions made by junior, intermediate and senior cadets.
“When a rank is conferred, it signifies our trust in their ability to lead their peers,” he said.
Dr. Nasriman emphasised that discipline within the Civil Defence Force (APM) is closely tied to time management, noting that punctuality and responsiveness are critical in disaster and life-saving situations.
Meanwhile, Kor SISPA UNIMAS Coordinator Lt. (PA) Mohd Zaidi Hj Jili highlighted the significant transformation he observed among cadets throughout their training, particularly in leadership development.
“The most significant changes are in self-confidence, decision-making and communication skills. Students become more disciplined, responsible and effective leaders,” he said.
He added that cadets also become more aware of time management and the responsibilities entrusted to them, stressing that rank is not merely symbolic.
“The rank reflects the organisation’s image and reminds students that every action matters. It encourages disciplined, ethical behaviour and leadership by example,” he said.
Newly appointed President of Kor SISPA UNIMAS for the 2025/2026 session, Shah Rizam Rasban Abdullah, a third-year student from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, expressed pride in assuming the leadership role.
“I feel proud to take on the challenge and responsibility entrusted to me as President of Kor SISPA UNIMAS for this session,” he said.
Shah Rizam acknowledged that balancing academic commitments with intensive training is challenging but believes the experience builds resilience and strong character.
The ceremony concluded with Dr. Nasriman and Lt. Zaidi urging the newly commissioned officers to lead with integrity, discipline and openness, to further strengthen Kor SISPA UNIMAS’s reputation at both university and national levels.
by Sulfiana Abidin
