SHAH ALAM, Aug 30 — For young people who choose the path of service, independence is not merely a public holiday or the waving of the Jalur Gemilang. It is a trust that must be upheld, even amidst the turbulence of the seas.
For Maritime Sub-Lieutenant Muhammad Nur Affiq Nor Hisham, 30, nearly three years of service with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has been enough to realise that the spirit of independence must be expressed through sacrifice.
“Independence is not just about holidays or grand parades. It is about responsibility and continuous sacrifice. Many think independence is only safeguarded on land, but for us, the seas are also the nation’s borders that must be defended,” he said during the 'Bicara Semasa: Lautan Merdeka, Amanah Dipertahan' programme in conjunction with this year's National Day celebrations.
Among Affiq's most unforgettable experiences was intercepting a boat from a neighbouring country carrying 80 migrants. The operation took place at night in rough seas, and the boat was nearly sinking before it could enter Malaysian waters.
“We quickly detained them and escorted all the migrants to the jetty to be handed over to investigating officers. Many people want to work in Malaysia, but they choose the wrong way,” he said, stressing that the MMEA stands as the first line of defence in safeguarding maritime sovereignty, even when facing the risks of weapons, drugs, and severe weather.
For Maritime Lieutenant Junior Grade Mohd Atraf Abdul Patah, 32, the sacrifice of protecting the nation’s borders means giving up precious moments with family. This is exemplified by his seven years of service, including spending Hari Raya Aidilfitri aboard ship.
“The hardest part is when you cannot go home for Raya, cannot greet your parents. Of course, it is sad, but I take it as a test. If we are lucky, we get to return home by the fourth or fifth day,” he said.
However, Atraf said that his fellow shipmates are like a second family. They eat together, laugh together, and lift each other’s spirits when far away from loved ones.
Every night operations at sea are a matter of life and death. Waves as high as three metres, thunderstorms, and chases involving foreign vessels are nothing unusual for MMEA personnel.
“Maintaining 100 per cent focus is crucial. A single mistake could damage the vessel and endanger the crew’s lives. Of course, there is fear, but the spirit of defending the nation always outweighs everything else,” he said.
For these young heroes, independence is a price paid with time, sweat, tears, and family sacrifice.
“The sea is also part of the homeland. Defending it means defending independence itself. We do not need cheers; what matters is that this country remains peaceful,” said Affiq.
