By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 26: “I didn’t think twice. I just knew that person’s life was more important than my fears.”
These were the humble words of Ahmad Nur Irfan Amirruddin, a cadet officer with the Civil Defence Student Corps (Kor SISPA), whose quick and courageous actions turned a moment of tragedy into one of hope at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) Lake last Monday.
In the tense and chaotic incident on July 21 morning, a car plunged into the lake with two passengers. A 17-year-old girl managed to escape the sinking vehicle but was struggling in the water, fighting for her life.
Without hesitation, Ahmad dove in and rescued her. Tragically, the driver, a 50-year-old woman, was later pulled from the car and rushed to the Unimas Prima Health Centre, but could not be saved.
Ahmad’s swift and selfless response, driven by instinct and strengthened by SISPA training, not only saved a young life, but also captured the admiration of the Unimas community and beyond.
In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, Ahmad was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation during an official ceremony officiated by Unimas vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) and SISPA Corps Commander, Honorary Assistant Commissioner (PA) Prof Dr Al-Khalid Othman.
“I had confidence in the training we’ve received. And I knew I had to step in,” Ahmad added in a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report on Friday (July 25).
Also present at the ceremony were Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM) Sarawak deputy director Lieutenant Colonel (PA) Raja Muhammad AlHakim Raja Jaafar @ Raja Yaakub, head of APM Sarawak’s Force Management Branch Lieutenant (PA) Zaidi Jili, Unimas SISPA officers, and other APM personnel, all gathered to honour and support the young hero.
Al-Khalid described Ahmad’s actions as a powerful testament to the values and training instilled in SISPA cadets.
“This wasn’t just an act of bravery, it was a moment of true inspiration. Ahmad Nur Irfan showed that during emergencies, we must respond not only with knowledge, but with heart,” he said.
The event also recognised the critical role of the Unimas SISPA Corps in shaping disciplined, resilient, and socially responsible youth ready to serve in times of crisis.
Behind the uniform and rigorous drills lies a story of raw courage and unwavering compassion. Ahmad Nur Irfan’s heroic deed turned a life-or-death emergency into a story of hope, elevating an ordinary university student into an extraordinary symbol of selfless service. — DayakDaily
