In Pursuit of Quality Soldiering: The Story of the Man Behind the Malaysian Green Beret

Author: Borhan Ahmad
Publisher: Penerbit UPNM
ISBN: 9789672414315
Weight: 0.6 kg
Pages: 304 pp
Year: 2021
Price: RM80

In 1953, a young Borhan ‘ran away’ from the hardships of life to join the Boys Company of the Federation Military College. Given his adventurous spirit, he chose the military profession of arms as his preferred career. Serving with 1st Malayan Special Force in The Congo (1960-1961), his exploits were nothing short of youthful audacity. These were clearly signs of a courageous young man who took over the reins of the Malaysian Special Service Unit in 1965. Within a period of 15 years, he transformed this outfit into what is today the 21 Special Service Group. A man with a rare blend of great physical and moral courage, Borhan held on steadfastly to a noble piece of advice – “don’t be afraid to say no when you are in the right” – and endured the repercussions. This book is a “must read” for those who want to know the origins of the Malaysian Army Special Forces, aka the Commandos. History buffs can read first-hand encounters of some of the hitherto untold special operations carried out by the Commandos against communist terrorists and other foes of the nations. For military officers, there are many important rea life lessons about command at all levels, lessons shared by the only Commando who rose up the ladder to become the 12th Chief of Defence Force, Malaysia.