Sincere Cops

I wish to thank and salute these two exemplary members of the Royal Malaysia Police who went out of the way to help me:

• Lance Corporal 114116 RAHATAN BIN TAHRIN
• Constable 142296 ASRI BIN DARI

One night, I drove home past midnight. When I reached the house, I pressed the auto-gate remote control. The gate refused to open. I pressed the control again and again. Nothing happened.

My family was away for a few days so I couldn't call them for help. I sat quietly in my car and gathered my thoughts. My brain went into problem-solving mode. All of a sudden I thought of the police.

Why shouldn't I run to them for help?
Why shouldn't I trust them with my problem?

I drove over to the police station. I told the police officer on duty of my predicament. He was very helpful. He made a call and soon two policemen turned up at the station - one was a lance corporal and the other a constable.

Both policemen followed my car on a motorbike. When we arrived at the house, it was past 1am. They told me their plan. One of them would climb over the gate, go up to the house, open the main door with the door keys, go inside and locate the auto-gate manual switch.

As the policeman was clambering up the gate, he chuckled, “This looks like housebreaking.” The other policeman was amused. I had my moment of anxiety.

Oh dear, are the neighbours watching this “housebreaking”? Would they call the police?

Finally, the drama was over – the gate opened and I could get into the house. I was so grateful to the two policemen. I offered them some money as a token of my appreciation. Both declined without hesitation. I was taken aback. If I had to hire a skilled person to do the job, I might have to pay a handsome price.

The two policemen were adamant despite my persuasion. They touched their chests with their hands and said, “Kami ikhlas.” (We are sincere)

I will always remember them as admirable members of the Royal Malaysia Police who serve our country with integrity.