Kisah Aiman dalam Latihan PALAPES TD USM

Aiman masih ingat hari pertama dia melangkah masuk ke padang kawad PALAPES TD USM. Matahari terik, kasut but berat, dan jeritan kawad serentak bergema di udara. Bagi kebanyakan mahasiswa, hujung minggu adalah masa untuk berehat, tetapi bagi Aiman dan rakan-rakannya, ia adalah medan mengasah disiplin, mental dan fizikal.

1. Disiplin yang Membentuk

Latihan bermula seawal subuh. Barisan terbentuk tepat pada waktunya. Tiada alasan, tiada kompromi. Sedikit sahaja kesilapan kawad, seluruh platun terima akibatnya. Dari situlah Aiman belajar erti tanggungjawab—bahawa satu kesilapan kecil boleh memberi kesan kepada seluruh pasukan.

2. Tidur di Ladang dan Hutan

Bukan sekali dua mereka diuji dengan latihan medan. Pernah mereka tidur di ladang sawit yang baru ditanam, di ladang getah, malah di hutan yang gelap pekat. Tidur beralaskan tanah, berbumbungkan langit, ditemani bunyi unggas malam.
Bagi Aiman, ketidakselesaan itu bukan beban, sebaliknya pengalaman berharga. Di situlah dia belajar bertahan, menerima keadaan, dan menyesuaikan diri.

3. Cabaran Fizikal dan Mental

Latihan lasak kadang-kadang membuatkan tubuh terasa ingin menyerah. Lari jauh dengan beban penuh, merangkak dalam lumpur, menyeberang sungai dengan senjata di tangan—semuanya menguji batas diri. Tetapi setiap kali Aiman mahu berhenti, dia teringat rakan di kiri dan kanan. PALAPES mengajar bahawa perjuangan bukan tentang diri sendiri, tetapi tentang pasukan.

4. Nilai Kepimpinan

Sebagai pegawai kadet, Aiman mula belajar bahawa kepimpinan bukan sekadar memberi arahan. Ia tentang mendengar, memahami, dan mendahulukan pasukan. Ada masa dia perlu jadi contoh—berani di hadapan, tenang dalam tekanan. Ada masa dia perlu mengakui kelemahan, lalu bangkit bersama-sama.

5. Universiti Kehidupan

Bila orang bertanya bagaimana dia boleh bertahan dalam industri yang keras selepas graduasi, Aiman selalu menjawab:
“Sebab saya PALAPES.”

Pengalaman tiga tahun itu bukan sekadar latihan ketenteraan, tetapi universiti kehidupan. Ia melatihnya menghargai disiplin, bersedia menghadapi cabaran, dan sentiasa mencari jalan untuk menyelesaikan masalah, bukan lari daripadanya.

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✅ Pengajaran:
Kisah Aiman dalam PALAPES TD USM adalah bukti bahawa cabaran dan ketidakselesaan adalah guru terbaik. Apa yang ditempa dalam ladang sawit, hutan, dan padang kawad, menjadi bekalan untuknya menempuh dunia kerjaya dan kehidupan sebenar.

Reading can reduce stress level by 68% higher thank music, coffee, walking and video games

“Galaxy Stress Research” (2009) by Dr David Lewis / Mindlab International at the University of Sussex — claims

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What the Study Claims

• Reading silently for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by about 68%. (Telegraph)

• That stress reduction effect is greater than other common relaxation methods tested, such as:

  • Listening to music (≈ 61% reduction) (Telegraph)

  • Having a cup of tea or coffee (≈ 54%) (The Indian Express)

  • Going for a walk (≈ 42%) (Telegraph)

  • Playing video games (≈ 21%) (Baby Domain)

• The study also reports that after reading for six minutes, participants' heart rate slows down, and muscle tension eases. The reading actually reduces stress to levels lower than before the stress-inducing task. (Telegraph)

• The reasoning given is that reading engages the mind, distracts from worries, stimulates imagination, and shifts brain activity out of the “fight or flight” response, allowing more relaxed physiological states. (blogs.ncl.ac.uk)

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How It Was Carried Out (Methods, as Known)

From what is publicly described (note: the full published paper is not easily found, so many details come from media summaries rather than a peer-reviewed article):

• Participants: A “group of volunteers” were recruited. It’s not clear in public sources exactly how many, what age range, or how they were selected. (Telegraph)

• Stress induction: Before testing relaxation methods, their stress levels and heart rates were raised via “a range of tests and exercises.” The precise nature of these stressors is not fully disclosed in the reports I've seen. (Telegraph)

• Relaxation interventions: After the stress induction, participants were exposed to different relaxation or decompression activities: reading silently, listening to music, having a cup of tea or coffee, taking a walk, playing video games. (Telegraph)

• Measurement: Physiological measures like heart rate and muscle tension were monitored; likely self-reports of stress as well (though exactly how stress was quantified—scales, physiological markers—is not made completely clear in the summaries). (Telegraph)

• Duration: The key duration noted is six minutes for the reading intervention. (Telegraph)

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Findings (More Details)

• After six minutes of reading, participants’ stress dropped by 68%, which is more than for the other methods tested. (Telegraph)

• Reading lowered heart rate and muscle tension; and importantly, in some reports, the stress dropped to below the baseline (before stress was induced). (Telegraph)

• Even though other methods helped, none matched reading in terms of stress reduction within that short timeframe. (Telegraph)

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Caveats, Limitations & Questions

While the findings are attention-grabbing, there are several things to consider (because the public version of the study has gaps):

1. Lack of full published paper / peer-review transparency
   I did not find a full peer-reviewed journal article with all the methodological details (e.g. sample size, randomization, control for prior reading habits, etc.). Much of what is known comes from media reports. This means we can’t fully assess the rigor.

2. Sample size and representativeness
   Public reports do not state how many participants were involved, what their demographics were, nor whether they were physically healthy, their baseline reading habits, etc. We don’t know how generalizable the findings are (e.g. to older adults, children, people with anxiety disorders etc.).

3. What “reading” means
   It appears to mean silent reading of a book (or text) the participant is presumably comfortable with. But details such as genre, difficulty level, whether participants chose what to read or were assigned, the readability, etc., are not well‐reported. The emotional content might matter.

4. Stress induction method
   The type of stressors used (how “real” or naturalistic) will affect how applicable the results are. If the stress was lab-type stress (e.g. mental arithmetic, timed tasks), that might differ from everyday stress. Also, how long the increased stress was maintained matters.

5. Measurement of stress
   It’s not clear exactly which physiological markers were used (heart rate, muscle tension etc.), and whether there were other measures (e.g. cortisol). Also, whether there was a psychological self-report. How reliable are muscle tension measures (observer rated or via sensors)? Without the full methodology, hard to judge.

6. Effect durability
   The study focuses on very short time (6 minutes) immediate effects. It does not tell us how long the stress‐reduction lasts after reading stops, or how repeated reading sessions affect baseline stress or cumulative stress load.

7. Contextual factors
   The environment (quiet room? distractions?), the type of text, personal preference (if you dislike reading, it might not be relaxing for you), literacy and reading ability, cultural background—all can influence how effective reading is as a stress reducer.

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Conclusion & Practical Implications

From what is known, the study suggests:

• Even very short periods of reading can provide a rapid and strong reduction in stress.

• Reading might be more effective than many other common relaxation activities (music, tea, walking) in the short term for many people, when conditions are favorable.

• Because reading is inexpensive, accessible, and portable, it can be a useful tool for stress management.

However, one should be cautious about overstating it: it’s not a cure for chronic stress by itself, results may vary, and more detailed evidence would help confirm and extend it (e.g. longer term studies, larger diverse samples, etc.).

#reading #reader #read #book #leader #lead #leadership #manager #engineer #blog #blogger

Train Your Replacement – The Mark of a True Leader

One of the greatest responsibilities every leader carries is to train his or her replacement. You won’t usually find this sentiment written in employee handbooks, but it lies at the very heart of becoming an effective leader. Leadership isn’t just about managing tasks or achieving short-term goals—it’s about building the next generation of leaders.

When you invest in people, something interesting happens. The best individuals you develop often get pulled into other teams or promoted into bigger roles. At first, this may feel like you’re constantly starting over, but in reality, it’s a powerful sign that you are doing your job well.

I’m reminded of a quote by the great motivational speaker Zig Ziglar. Leaders often tell him: “I train people and they leave.” His response was simple yet profound: “Would it be better not to train them, and they stay?”

This perspective shifts the focus. Leadership is not about hoarding talent but about being a great coach and cheerleader—developing people regardless of whether they remain on your team.

Think of a high school or college football coach. Players only have four years of eligibility. Coaches know they cannot keep star players forever, but they still pour their energy into helping them grow, succeed, and move on. Why? Because winning isn’t only about the current season—it’s about building a culture of excellence that lasts.

In today’s workplace, this lesson is even more relevant. Studies show that the average millennial employee stays in a role for three to five years. Leaders must adapt to this reality by preparing their teams for transition, not clinging to permanence.

True leadership is measured not by how indispensable you are, but by how well your team thrives without you. When you train your replacement, you ensure continuity, resilience, and growth. More importantly, you create a legacy that outlives your tenure.

The best leaders don’t fear being replaced—they build leaders who are ready to replace them.

#leader #lead #manager #engineer #leadership #blog #blogger 

12 Reasons Why Reading Books Should Be Part of Your Life

1. Knowledge Highway
Books are timeless vessels of knowledge, containing wisdom collected across centuries. Unlike quick online summaries, books often explore topics in depth, giving you a holistic understanding of history, science, philosophy, arts, and countless other areas. Whether you want to learn a new skill, broaden your worldview, or revisit classic teachings, books serve as an endless highway of knowledge.

2. Enhanced Vocabulary
Every page introduces you to new words and expressions. Over time, this exposure sharpens your language skills, making your conversations more precise and impactful. A strong vocabulary also helps you articulate ideas with clarity, whether in professional settings, writing, or everyday communication.

3. Memory Boost
Reading requires you to track plots, recall details, and connect complex ideas. This mental exercise strengthens neural pathways, enhancing memory retention and cognitive agility. Regular readers often find it easier to recall details in real life because their brains are consistently challenged.

4. Stress Reduction
Immersing yourself in a good story provides an escape from daily stressors. Research shows that even six minutes of reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%.[1] This form of healthy escapism calms the mind and helps you reset emotionally.

5. Improved Focus and Concentration
In a world dominated by fast-scrolling feeds and instant notifications, reading trains your brain to focus on one task for extended periods. The ability to concentrate deeply on a single book chapter strengthens your discipline and enhances your productivity in other areas of life.

6. Empathy and Perspective
When you inhabit the life of a fictional character or read memoirs of real people, you begin to see the world through their eyes. This fosters empathy and cultural awareness, making you more open-minded and understanding in social interactions.

7. Enhanced Creativity
Exposure to different writing styles, imaginative worlds, and fresh ideas stimulates your own creativity. Many innovators—from scientists to entrepreneurs—credit their problem-solving skills to insights gained through diverse reading materials.

8. Stronger Writing Skills
Writers often say, “to write well, you must read well.” Books introduce you to sentence structures, narrative flows, and stylistic techniques that naturally seep into your own writing. Over time, this passive learning sharpens your ability to communicate effectively in essays, emails, and professional reports.

9. Improved Sleep Quality
Replacing late-night screen scrolling with 20 minutes of reading can signal to your body that it’s time to rest. The calming ritual lowers stress hormones and reduces blue-light exposure, both of which improve sleep quality and duration.[2]

10. A Portal to New Worlds
Books act as a time machine and a passport combined. Through them, you can relive historical events, experience cultures you’ve never visited, or embark on fantastical adventures—all from the comfort of your favorite chair. This imaginative journey broadens your mental horizons.

11. Lifelong Learning
Reading nurtures a growth mindset. Each book you finish becomes a stepping stone in your personal journey of continuous learning, regardless of your age. From professional development to self-help or even poetry, every genre contributes to your evolution.

12. Conversation Starter
Books give you meaningful material to share in conversations. Discussing what you’ve read not only enriches your social interactions but also helps strengthen relationships with people who share your interests. It can also make you stand out in professional networking or casual meetups.

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Footnotes:

[1] Lewis, D. (2009). “Galaxy Stress Research.” University of Sussex. Study showing reading reduces stress levels significantly.
[2] Chang, A. M., Aeschbach, D., Duffy, J. F., & Czeisler, C. A. (2015). "Evening use of light-emitting eReaders negatively affects sleep." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(4).

#blog #blogger #kembarainsan #engineer #reading #read #book

Salman and the Shifting Workforce

Salman had been a team leader in a medium-sized engineering company for almost eight years. He was a strong technical mind, respected by his bosses, but he often felt frustrated by the younger employees who came and left within just a few years.

One morning, while reviewing his team roster, he sighed.
“Another resignation,” he muttered. His brightest millennial engineer, Afiq, had just accepted a role in another department. This wasn’t the first time it had happened. To Salman, it felt like he was always starting over.

But instead of complaining, Salman decided to step back and reflect. He recalled a workshop he had attended where someone quoted Zig Ziglar: “Would it be better not to train them, and they stay?” That thought struck him deeply. Maybe the problem wasn’t the team—it was how he approached leadership.

That evening, Salman read Gallup’s report, How Millennials Want to Work and Live. The words jumped out at him:

• Millennials want opportunities to learn and grow.
• They seek coaches, not bosses.
• They value purpose and flexibility.
• They often stay in jobs only three to five years.

“Ah,” Salman realized, “they’re not disloyal. They’re just looking for something different than what I’ve been giving.”

The next day, Salman changed his approach. Instead of only assigning tasks, he began weekly coaching sessions where each team member could share their challenges and ideas. He asked questions like, “What skills do you want to learn this month?” and “How can I help you grow into the role you dream of?”

He also started giving real-time feedback instead of waiting for the annual review. The younger engineers responded immediately—they felt heard, valued, and guided.

Most importantly, Salman began training his replacement. He chose Aida, a promising junior engineer, and gave her leadership responsibilities on a small project. He explained, “My job is not just to lead today, but to prepare you for tomorrow. One day, you’ll lead this team too.”

Months passed. Some millennials still left after three years, but now they left with gratitude, carrying Salman’s mentorship into their new roles. Others stayed longer, motivated by the culture of growth he built.

At first, Salman worried he would be forgotten when his “replacements” moved on. But slowly, he realized something powerful: his influence stretched far beyond his own team. Leaders he had trained were now shaping other departments, carrying forward his values.

One afternoon, Aida walked into his office and said with a smile,
“Boss, they’ve asked me to lead a new unit. I’m nervous, but I think I’m ready.”

Salman smiled back. “That’s the point, Aida. My job was never to keep you here forever. It was to prepare you for what’s next.”

And for the first time, Salman didn’t feel like he was losing. He felt like he was multiplying.

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✨ Moral of the Story: True leadership is not about holding on to people, but about preparing them to thrive—even if that means moving on. Leaders like Salman succeed because they build others who are ready to replace them.

#genz #blogger #blog #engineer #kembarainsan #recruitment #malaysia #replacement #management #coach #royalty

Kisah Aiman dalam PALAPES

Ketidakselesaan itu sebenarnya satu nikmat tersembunyi. Ia bukan sekadar ujian fizikal, tetapi pengalaman berharga dalam universiti kehidupan.

Bila ditanya, bagaimana Aiman boleh bertahan dan terus maju dalam industri kejuruteraan dan kelapa sawit hingga kini? Jawapannya mudah:

👉 “Kerana aku pernah ditempa dalam PALAPES.”

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Tahun-Tahun Latihan

Tiga tahun dalam PALAPES membentuk Aiman menjadi insan yang tahan lasak. Mereka tidur di ladang sawit yang baru ditanam, sawit matang berusia 10 tahun, dan sawit tua yang menunggu untuk ditebang. Kadang-kadang di ladang getah, kadang-kadang jauh di dalam hutan.

Berpuluh kilometer mereka mara, mendaki bukit botak panas terik, membina kubu, dan menjadikan alam sebagai rumah. Jika ada lopak air, itulah air mandi mereka.

Bagi Aiman, itu bukan penderitaan – itu adalah pembelajaran sebenar tentang erti hidup.

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Hujung Minggu Bukan Untuk Tidur

Ketika rakan-rakan di universiti lena hingga tengah hari, Aiman sudah bangun seawal jam 5 pagi. Tepat jam 6, mereka sudah berbaris. Sehari suntuk latihan – fizikal, kawad, teori dan amali – menjadi rutin.

Cuti semester pula bukan rehat semata. Tamat latihan tahunan dua minggu, baki masa digunakan untuk aktiviti rekreasi sesama sendiri. Pernah sekali mereka berkayak dari Seberang Perai hingga ke Tanjung Tokong dan Tanjung Bungah, sebelum akhirnya terhenti di Batu Feringgi kerana ombak besar.

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Kehidupan Kampus yang Berbeza

Bila semester bermula, Aiman bukan sekadar pelajar biasa. Ada masanya dia menjadi tenaga keselamatan universiti, ada waktunya dia berbaris dalam kawad Hari Kebangsaan atau konvokesyen. Ada juga aktiviti kelab, makan malam, dan baktisiswa.

Aiman bukan jenis yang suka tonjolkan diri. Dia lebih selesa bekerja di belakang tabir. Namun, setiap tugasan yang diberi pasti selesai dengan sempurna.

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Malam yang Paling Dikenang

Satu momen yang takkan dilupakan adalah malam rejimental. Dengan duit elaun hasil bertahun berlatih, mereka bergaya dengan pakaian rasmi No. 1 dan menghadiri makan malam di hotel lima bintang.

Namun, selepas acara berakhir, realitinya mereka masih budak kampus yang lapar. Aiman bersama rakan-rakan mencari roti canai di gerai depan universiti. Dari hotel mewah ke warung sederhana – itulah kontras yang buat mereka ketawa hingga kini.

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Nilai Seumur Hidup

Bagi Aiman, semua kesusahan itu bukan sia-sia. Apa yang dahulu tampak perit kini menjadi kenangan indah sepanjang hayat.

Sekali seumur hidup, dia pernah merasa susah, tidak selesa, sakit, letih, lapar dan dahaga. Tetapi pengalaman itu membuktikan bahawa manusia mampu mengharungi apa saja.

PALAPES mengajarnya satu perkara penting:

💡 “Hidup ini lebih besar cabarannya. Jika kau mampu di sini, kau pasti mampu di luar sana.”

#palapestd #rotu #usm #ump #ums #utm #ukm #army #tenteradarat #malaysia #university

Kisah Kepimpinan: Kapten Rizan dan Legasi Gunturian

Awal 2000-an, padang kawad Universiti Sains Malaysia bergema dengan hentakan but, laungan arahan, dan semangat waja para kadet yang sedang ditempa. Di tengah-tengah medan latihan itu berdiri seorang insan bernama Kapten Rizan Muhammad Aris — seorang pemimpin yang tidak hanya membentuk askar, tetapi juga membentuk manusia yang tahan uji.

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1. Menjadi Teladan (Model the Way)

Kapten Rizan tidak pernah meminta anak didiknya melakukan sesuatu yang beliau sendiri enggan lakukan. Jika beliau mahu kecemerlangan fizikal, beliau turut berlari bersama. Jika beliau menuntut disiplin, uniformnya sentiasa kemas, waktunya tepat. Perbuatannya menjadi cermin kepimpinan — membuktikan bahawa integriti dan konsistensi ialah asas seorang pemimpin¹.

2. Mengilhamkan Visi Bersama (Inspire a Shared Vision)

Beliau mengingatkan kami bahawa kami bukan sekadar kadet, tetapi bakal pegawai dan perwira tanah air. Katanya yang masih terngiang, “Keamanan ini mesti dijaga, dan ia mesti diisi sebaik mungkin.” Kisah pengalamannya sebagai tentera pengaman di Bosnia memberi gambaran jelas betapa sengsaranya hidup tanpa kebebasan, dan mengapa keamanan Malaysia harus dipertahankan dengan jiwa dan raga².

3. Mencabar Proses (Challenge the Process)

Latihannya jarang biasa-biasa. Ada kalanya kami dipaksa berlari hingga kaki hampir rebah. Ada masanya diuji dalam lumpur, lintah dan pacat melekat di kaki, atau bermalam di ladang kelapa sawit dan kebun getah. Ramai mengeluh, namun beliau tahu — ketahanan diri lahir daripada cabaran yang menyakitkan. Beliau mengajar bahawa hanya dengan berani mencabar batas, kekuatan sejati akan terbentuk³.

4. Memberdayakan Orang Lain (Enable Others to Act)

Walau keras, beliau membina rasa kebersamaan antara 130 kadet. Usai hukuman fizikal, beliau akan menghimpunkan kami lalu meniupkan kata semangat. Beliau memberi kepercayaan kepada ketua-ketua kadet untuk memimpin, dan menekankan bahawa seorang pegawai sejati bukan hanya berdiri sendiri, tetapi mengangkat orang lain bersama. Dalam latihannya, kerjasama bukan pilihan — ia adalah soal hidup dan mati⁴.

5. Menggalakkan Hati (Encourage the Heart)

Apabila kami berada di titik rapuh, beliau hadir meniupkan tujuan perjuangan. Beliau meraikan kejayaan kecil — menamatkan route march, melepasi halangan, atau sekadar bangkit semula selepas jatuh. Pujian daripadanya jarang, tetapi apabila ia hadir, ia membekas lebih dalam daripada segala kepenatan. Sehingga hari ini, ramai kadet lebih mengingati sinar bangga di wajahnya daripada sakit di tubuh mereka⁵.

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Pada hari pertaulihan 2002, ketika Gunturian berdiri megah bersama kadet dari seluruh IPTA di Malaysia, kami bukan sahaja membawa insignia pegawai, tetapi juga legasi seorang jurulatih yang membakar jiwa.

Kepimpinan Kapten Rizan melebihi kawad, latihan dan disiplin. Ia hidup dalam diri setiap Gunturian yang melangkah ke dunia dengan keberanian, keteguhan, dan kecintaan pada tanah air.

Kisah ini mengingatkan kita semua: pemimpin sejati bukan sekadar memerintah — mereka membentuk jiwa, menyalakan visi, dan meninggalkan semangat yang terus hidup setelah mereka tiada.

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Footnotes

1. Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2017). The Leadership Challenge. Wiley. – “Model the Way” menekankan bahawa pemimpin mesti jelas dengan nilai mereka dan memimpin melalui teladan. 

2. Ibid. – “Inspire a Shared Vision” menuntut pemimpin membayangkan masa depan dan mengajak orang lain berkongsi tujuan yang sama. 

3. Ibid. – “Challenge the Process” menekankan keberanian mencuba, mengambil risiko dan belajar daripada pengalaman. 

4. Ibid. – “Enable Others to Act” memberi fokus pada kolaborasi, membina kepercayaan dan memberdayakan orang lain. 

5. Ibid. – “Encourage the Heart” menegaskan pentingnya pengiktirafan dan meraikan pencapaian.

English Version

Leadership Story: Captain Rizan and the Gunturian Legacy

In the early 2000s, the fields of Universiti Sains Malaysia echoed with the sound of boots striking the ground, the shouts of orders, and the unyielding spirit of cadets in training. At the heart of this transformation stood Captain Rizan Muhammad Aris, a leader whose impact shaped not just soldiers, but resilient human beings.

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1. Model the Way

Captain Rizan never asked his cadets to do something he would not endure himself. When he demanded physical excellence, he joined the morning runs. When he spoke of discipline, his uniform was immaculate, his timing precise. His actions set the standard—cadets learned quickly that leadership begins with personal integrity and consistency¹.

2. Inspire a Shared Vision

He reminded the Gunturian batch that they were not just cadets; they were future leaders, defenders of Malaysia’s peace. In his words, “Keamanan ini mesti dijaga, dan ia mesti diisi sebaik mungkin.” Through stories from his peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, he painted a vivid picture of what it meant to live without freedom—and why preserving Malaysia’s peace was worth every sacrifice².

3. Challenge the Process

Training under him was never routine. One day, cadets found themselves running until their legs shook. Another day, they were tested in the mud, leeches clinging to their skin, or tasked with surviving overnight in palm estates and rubber plantations. Some thought it too harsh—but Captain Rizan believed growth was forged in discomfort. He showed that by pushing boundaries, resilience and courage would emerge³.

4. Enable Others to Act

Though tough, he built camaraderie among the 130 cadets. After punishing drills, he would gather them together and speak words that reignited their spirit. He trusted his cadet leaders, gave them responsibility, and reminded them that a true officer lifts others, not just himself. In his training, collaboration wasn’t optional—it was survival⁴.

5. Encourage the Heart

When cadets reached their breaking point, Captain Rizan was there to remind them of their purpose. He celebrated small victories—finishing a grueling march, completing an obstacle course, or simply standing back up after a fall. His praise was rare, but when given, it burned deeply in the hearts of his men. Many cadets still remember the pride in his eyes more vividly than the pain in their muscles⁵.

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On the day of commissioning in 2002, when the Gunturian stood tall among cadets from across Malaysia, they carried not only the insignia of officers but the legacy of a leader who had transformed their character.

Captain Rizan’s leadership lived beyond the drills, beyond the kawad, beyond the mud and sweat. It lived in every Gunturian who stepped into the world with courage, discipline, and love for the nation.

His story reminds us all: great leaders do not just command—they shape lives, ignite visions, and leave behind a spirit that outlives them.

Footnotes

1. Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2017). The Leadership Challenge. Wiley. – “Model the Way” emphasizes leaders must be clear about their values and lead by example. 

2. Ibid. – “Inspire a Shared Vision” requires leaders to envision the future and enlist others in a common purpose. 

3. Ibid. – “Challenge the Process” highlights innovation, risk-taking, and resilience in overcoming obstacles. 

4. Ibid. – “Enable Others to Act” focuses on fostering collaboration and building trust. 

5. Ibid. – “Encourage the Heart” underlines the importance of recognizing contributions and celebrating values and victories. 

#blog #blogger #kembarainsan #gunturian #guntur #palapes #palapestd #usm #ukm #utm #uthm #ump #ums #unimas #uitm #tenteradarat

Kouzes & Posner (2017), The Leadership Challenge

Merujuk kepada Kouzes & Posner (2017), The Leadership Challenge.

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1. Kepimpinan bukan soal jawatan atau pangkat

Menurut Kouzes dan Posner, menjadi ketua tidak semestinya datang bersama pangkat (contoh: pengurus, pengarah, pegawai). Memiliki kuasa rasmi tidak menjamin orang akan mengikut kita. Kepimpinan sebenar bergantung kepada keupayaan mempengaruhi, memberi inspirasi, dan membimbing orang lain, tidak kira kedudukan.

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2. Kepimpinan ialah soal pengalaman dan tingkah laku

Kepimpinan lahir daripada apa yang kita buat, nilai yang kita pegang, serta bagaimana kita bertindak. Orang akan menilai seorang pemimpin berdasarkan:

• Kredibiliti (buat apa yang dikata, tepati janji).

• Teladan (menunjukkan contoh melalui perbuatan, bukan hanya kata-kata).

• Hubungan (membina kepercayaan, rasa hormat, dan visi bersama).

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3. Lima Amalan Kepimpinan Cemerlang

Kouzes & Posner menyenaraikan lima amalan utama yang membentuk kepimpinan, melalui pengalaman bukan pangkat:

1. Menjadi Teladan (Model the Way) – Pemimpin tunjuk contoh dengan konsisten.

2. Mengilhamkan Visi Bersama (Inspire a Shared Vision) – Membawa gambaran masa depan yang meyakinkan.

3. Mencabar Proses (Challenge the Process) – Berani cuba, inovasi, dan belajar daripada pengalaman.

4. Memberdayakan Orang Lain (Enable Others to Act) – Membina kerjasama, kepercayaan, dan memberi ruang orang lain bertindak.

5. Menghargai Sumbangan (Encourage the Heart) – Mengiktiraf usaha dan meraikan kejayaan.

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4. Pengalaman membentuk kepimpinan

Kouzes & Posner juga tekankan bahawa kepimpinan boleh dipelajari. Ia berkembang melalui cabaran, kesilapan, dan pengalaman sebenar – bukan semata-mata melalui gelaran. Contohnya, seorang staf junior yang memimpin projek atau sukarelawan yang menggerakkan komuniti boleh menunjukkan kepimpinan tanpa ada jawatan rasmi.

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✅ Kesimpulan:
Kouzes & Posner menegaskan bahawa kepimpinan bukan terletak pada pangkat, tetapi pada nilai, tindakan, dan pengalaman yang membentuk diri sehingga orang lain rela memilih untuk mengikut kita.

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English Version

Based on Kouzes & Posner (2017), The Leadership Challenge.

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1. Leadership is not about position or rank

Kouzes and Posner argue that leadership does not come automatically with a title (e.g., manager, director, officer). Having authority on paper does not mean people will naturally follow you. Real leadership depends on your ability to influence, inspire, and guide others, regardless of formal rank.

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2. Leadership is about experiences and behaviors

Instead of relying on titles, they emphasize that leadership comes from the actions you take and the values you demonstrate.
According to them, people recognize leaders based on:

• The credibility they show (do what they say, keep promises).

• The example they set (modeling the behavior they expect from others).

• The relationships they build (trust, respect, and shared vision).

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3. The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership

Kouzes & Posner outline five key practices leaders demonstrate (through experience, not just rank):

1. Model the Way – Leaders set an example through personal actions and consistency.

2. Inspire a Shared Vision – They create and communicate a compelling future.

3. Challenge the Process – They take risks, innovate, and learn from experience.

4. Enable Others to Act – They foster collaboration, trust, and empower others.

5. Encourage the Heart – They recognize contributions and celebrate achievements.

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4. Experience develops leadership

They also emphasize that leadership can be learned. It grows through challenges, mistakes, and real-life experiences rather than being tied to a title. For example, a junior employee leading a project or a community volunteer organizing people can display strong leadership without a formal rank.

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✅ In summary:
Kouzes & Posner argue that leadership is not about your position on the organizational chart, but about the values you live, the behaviors you model, and the experiences that shape you into someone others choose to follow.

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END

Jalan Aiman Menjadi Perwira

Hari-hari awal Aiman di Padang Kawad USM penuh dengan hentakan but yang menyakitkan betis. Namun itu hanya permulaan. Latihan sebenar menunggu – bukan sekadar kawad, bukan sekadar PT, tetapi satu perjalanan menempuh getir untuk membentuk jiwa seorang perwira.

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Tahun Pertama: Asas dan Disiplin

Mereka tidur di Desasiswa Indah, tetapi malam sering terputus dek wisel mengejutkan untuk “turnout” – berkumpul dengan uniform lengkap di bawah lima minit. Siapa lambat, hukuman menanti.

Pagi, mereka berlari keliling jalan raya kampus USM, ada masa singgah di tepi kolam USM untuk water confidence – terjun, berenang, merangkak dalam air yang keruh. Tubuh muda mereka ditempa.

Namun yang paling menguji, bila pertama kali dihantar bermalam di ladang kelapa sawit. Nyamuk, bunyi unggas, dan bayangan hitam batang sawit menjadi peneman. Tidur beralaskan tanah, langit terbuka, hujan turun tanpa belas.

Di situlah Aiman belajar bahawa seorang kadet mesti tabah dalam apa keadaan sekalipun.

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Tahun Kedua: Medan Kehidupan dan Penderitaan

Kini latihan semakin mencabar. Mereka dihantar ke kebun getah terpencil untuk latihan tempur. Tidur malam beralaskan daun kering, telinga mendengar bunyi ranting patah. Kadang-kadang jurulatih sengaja melepaskan bunyi letupan mercun untuk menguji reaksi.

Ada hari, mereka diarahkan merangkak dalam parit berlumpur. Lumpur tebal menelan tubuh hingga ke dada, lintah hitam bergayut di kaki dan betis. Ada rakan yang menjerit bila seekor pacat kecil menyelinap masuk ke dalam mata seorang kadet – kisah yang sampai kini jadi bualan kerana perit dan ngeri.

Makan tengah hari pun tidak menjamin rehat. Selesai makan, jurulatih mengarahkan crow – larian pecut, tekan tubi, berguling atas padang panas. Ramai muntah, namun mereka dipaksa berdiri semula, kerana inilah latihan membina mental besi.

Dalam route march sejauh berpuluh kilometer, ada yang rebah keletihan. Bahu terasa patah menanggung beban penuh. Tetapi suara sahabat dan ketukan whistle jurulatih memaksa mereka bangun semula.

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Tahun Ketiga: Ujian Akhir di Hutan

Di Hutan Simpan Kuala Kangsar, latihan akhir benar-benar menguji jiwa. Tiga hari hujan tanpa henti, khemah kecil tidak mampu menahan tempias. Uniform basah, kulit berkedut, tidur hanya sekejap-sekejap.

Mereka membina kubu pertahanan, menggali parit, menahan serangan malam. Saat paling getir bila diarahkan berendam penuh dalam lumpur semalaman – tubuh sejuk menggigil, pacat merayap tanpa belas. Namun tiada seorang pun dibenarkan keluar.

Segala penderitaan ini bukan sia-sia. Ia mengajar mereka bahawa seorang pegawai tidak boleh tunduk kepada kesusahan, sebaliknya mesti memimpin orang lain keluar dari kesusahan.

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Hari Pentauliahan: USM, 2002

Akhirnya tibalah hari yang dinanti. Padang Kawad USM Pulau Pinang penuh sesak dengan tetamu dan keluarga. Langkah mereka kini mantap, suara kawad bergema memecah langit.

Aiman berdiri tegap, dada berombak penuh bangga. Ingatannya kembali – malam di ladang kelapa sawit, tidur di kebun getah, mandi lumpur bersama lintah, sahabat yang hampir buta kerana pacat, crow sehingga muntah selepas makan tengah hari.

Semua pahit getir itu kini jadi kenangan sepanjang hayat. Kerana tanpa semua itu, mana mungkin dirinya kini berdiri sebagai seorang Leftenan Muda.

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Epilog

Saat pedang diserahkan, Aiman mengangkat kepalanya memandang Jalur Gemilang yang berkibar megah. Kata jurulatihnya dulu bergema semula:

“Keamanan ini mesti dijaga dan diisi sebaik mungkin. Ia bukan hadiah percuma, tetapi amanah yang diwariskan kepada kita.”

Dan Aiman tahu, luka, peluh, muntah, dan tangisan sepanjang tiga tahun itu adalah harga yang dibayar untuk sebuah amanah besar bernama tanah air.

#blog #blogger #kembarainsan #usm #palapestd #rotu #ukm #utm #uia #uitm

Obor Semangat Arwah Kapten Rizan Muhammad Aris

Ada insan yang hadir bukan sekadar meninggalkan nama, tetapi meninggalkan api semangat yang tidak pernah padam.

Bagi kami, insan itu adalah Kapten Rizan Muhammad Aris – seorang jurulatih, seorang pemimpin, seorang patriot yang hatinya tertambat pada nusa dan bangsa.

Di bumi Johor beliau dilahirkan, di bumi Malaysia beliau berbakti, dan di bumi asing Bosnia beliau belajar erti sebenar keamanan. Dari sana beliau kembali dengan satu tekad – mengajar kami bahawa keamanan ini mesti dijaga dan diisi sebaik mungkin.

Tahun 2000 hingga 2002, kami – seramai 130 orang pegawai kadet PALAPES Tentera Darat USM – dikenali sebagai Gunturian. Nama itu bukan sekadar gelaran, tetapi panji semangat yang dipimpin oleh beliau. Setiap langkah latihan, setiap titis peluh, semuanya dicorakkan oleh tangan seorang jurulatih yang percaya bahawa jiwa mesti ditempa lebih keras daripada besi.

Masih terbayang derap langkah kami membelah kesunyian kampus di pagi hari. Nafas terputus-putus, tubuh hampir rebah. Namun arwah tidak pernah mengalah – kerana beliau tahu, tentera tidak dilahirkan daripada keselesaan, tetapi daripada kesanggupan mengatasi kelemahan diri.

Dan apabila kami berkumpul setelah tubuh seakan mahu tumbang, beliau akan berdiri dengan wajah tenang tetapi suara penuh api:

> “Tubuhmu mungkin letih, kakimu mungkin rebah.

Namun jiwa yang cinta tanah air tidak akan pernah menyerah.

Ingatlah, Malaysia ini tanah tumpah darah kita.

Keamanan yang kita nikmati bukan hadiah percuma,

ia dibayar dengan darah, keringat, dan air mata pejuang sebelum kita.

Maka, jagalah ia. Isi dan suburkanlah ia dengan pengorbananmu.”

Kata-kata itu meresap jauh ke dalam jiwa. Segala penat lenyap, diganti dengan rasa bangga dan azam untuk terus berdiri sebagai benteng tanah air.

Itulah warisan arwah Kapten Rizan – bukan pangkat, bukan gelaran, tetapi semangat yang mengajar kami bahawa cinta tanah air mesti lebih besar daripada rasa takut dan penat.

Kini, dua puluh lima tahun telah berlalu. Namun api yang dinyalakan itu tidak pernah padam. Kami, Gunturian, masih membawa obor itu. Dan kami menyeru kepada generasi muda:

Hargailah keamanan ini. Ia mesti dijaga, dan ia mesti diisi sebaik mungkin. Jangan biarkan keamanan ini hanya jadi cerita, tetapi jadikan ia tanggungjawab.

Semoga Allah SWT mencucuri rahmat ke atas roh arwah Kapten Rizan Muhammad Aris, menempatkannya bersama orang-orang yang beriman.

Dan semoga obor yang beliau nyalakan terus menyala, menerangi jalan perjuangan generasi yang bakal mempertahankan bumi tercinta ini.

#palapes #usm #palapestd #guntur