Book title: A Policeman
Author: Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar
ISBN: 978-967-89-2425-2
Publisher: International Law Book Services
Number of Chapters: 14
Number of Pages: 575
Year of Publication: 2014
Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s “A Policeman” is not just a memoir; it is a deeply reflective and immersive account of a life dedicated to public service.
In this book, the author chronicles his journey from an unassuming beginning to becoming a highly respected figure in Malaysia’s law enforcement and political scene.
It is both a personal narrative and a historical reflection on Malaysia’s development through the lens of someone who has been intimately involved in its policing and governance.
At its heart, “A Policeman” is a recollection of duty, sacrifice, and resilience.
Wan Junaidi’s writing offers an in-depth look into the police force, from its internal workings to its broader societal role in maintaining law and order during some of the most tumultuous times in Malaysian history.
The narrative is one that intertwines personal struggles with larger political and social changes, making the memoir both a gripping personal story and an important historical document.
Early life and motivations
The book opens with a look into Wan Junaidi’s early life, a section that sets the tone for understanding his character.
Raised in a modest household, the author’s formative years were shaped by strong values of discipline, perseverance, and a deep sense of responsibility — traits that would serve him well in his later years as a policeman and public servant.
Wan Junaidi doesn’t shy away from discussing the hardships of his early years.
His decision to join the police force was influenced by a genuine interest in serving his country.
This section of the book humanises the figure behind the title, making it relatable to those who may also come from modest backgrounds yet aspire to serve in roles of greater responsibility.
His early struggles lay the foundation for the resilience and work ethic he would demonstrate throughout his career.
A policeman’s life: Duty and sacrifice
Once Wan Junaidi enters the police force, the memoir shifts to recounting the challenges and adventures of law enforcement during a time of significant change.
From the communist insurgency to the evolving landscape of Malaysian governance, the author’s career navigates some of the most important historical milestones of the nation.
His role was not merely as a bystander but as someone deeply embedded in the country’s security apparatus, often facing risks and moral dilemmas.
In his recollections, Wan Junaidi vividly describes the physical and emotional demands of the job.
The stories of confronting insurgents in the jungles and handling sensitive cases illustrate the dangers faced by the Malaysian police during these times.
What makes these stories even more compelling is Wan Junaidi’s reflection on the psychological toll that the skirmishes took on him and his colleagues.
Policing, as he portrays it, is not just about enforcing laws but also about managing human frailty — both that of the people they serve and of the officers themselves.
The author’s time in the police force was marked by moments of great triumph but also by periods of deep introspection.
He did not hesitate to discuss the challenges of maintaining integrity in a system where political and social pressures can sometimes conflict with the ethical standards expected of law enforcement officers.
This reflection adds an important dimension to the memoir, providing readers with a candid look at the moral and ethical complexities inherent in public service.
Key historical events
One of the standout aspects of “A Policeman” is its detailed recounting of Malaysia’s historical developments through the eyes of someone who lived through them on the front lines.
The communist insurgency is one such chapter in the book where Wan Junaidi recounts the difficulties of policing during a time of political unrest.
Through these stories, the book provides readers with an inside look at the pressures faced by law enforcement during times of national crisis.
In narrating these events, the author also sheds light on how the role of the police force evolved during periods of political transformation, particularly in relation to ensuring that law and order prevailed during sensitive times.
Additionally, Wan Junaidi’s recollections highlight the police force’s integral role in nation-building.
From post-independence Malaysia to the socio-political challenges of the 1960s and 1970s, “A Policeman” serves as a historical document chronicling the contributions of the police in maintaining stability and peace.
Legacy and reflection
Towards the end of the book, Wan Junaidi reflects on his legacy, both as a policeman and as a politician.
His life story is one of resilience, integrity, and commitment to public service.
He remains humble about his achievements, viewing them as a natural outcome of hard work and dedication rather than something extraordinary.
The memoir does not come across as self-congratulatory but rather as a sincere reflection on the life of a man who chose to serve his country, first as a policeman and later as a politician.
The author’s story is a reminder of the importance of public service and the sacrifices that come with it.
For younger generations, his journey offers valuable lessons about perseverance, integrity, and the willingness to face challenges head-on.
“A Policeman” by Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar is a must-read for anyone interested in Malaysian history, law enforcement, and public service.
It offers a unique perspective on the country’s evolution through the eyes of someone who has experienced it from multiple angles.
His journey, filled with personal trials and professional accomplishments, serves as both an inspiring and educational narrative.
This memoir will particularly resonate with those in public service or those aspiring to enter it.
Wan Junaidi’s reflections on leadership, integrity, and the sacrifices required in service to the nation provide a valuable roadmap for future leaders.
