Nestled within the Sungai Besi Camp, stands the National Defence University of Malaysia. It is also known as UPNM. What sets this university apart? It’s Malaysia’s first university dedicated to the development of the Malaysian Armed Forces.
Originally, it was the Malaysian Armed Forces Academy. It was established on March 8, 1995. It began operations on June 1. In 2006, it was upgraded to university status. That’s when it got its current name.
The National Defence University of Malaysia was created to meet the needs of the armed forces. Around 2700 undergraduate students attend. Over 890 are officer cadets. They undergo four to five years of training here.
Imagine the dedication it takes to balance academics with military training. Cadets are graded on academics, physical fitness and military leadership. The academic program includes 11 core courses. These courses cover management, science and engineering. Cadets choose their courses at the end of their foundation year.
Physical fitness is a must. Cadets take physical education classes. They participate in sports. They must pass a physical fitness test twice a year. At the end of each year, cadets undergo Single Service Training. Some cadets consider this the worst six weeks of the year.
Military skills are taught from day one. This includes leadership. Most military training happens during the end-semester holiday. New cadets undergo Cadet Basic Training. This is also known as Square bashing. Cadets live in barracks. They hold leadership positions throughout the year.
Every mid-semester, cadets train at the campus camp. They use campus fields for physical training. They use the 1RAMD obstacle course and shooting range. They use RMC’s parade ground for drills. Cadets are introduced to basic firearms and training exercises.
Moral and ethical development is woven throughout the programs. Formal instruction is given in military values. Religious programs are offered. Cadets interact with staff and faculty role models. The university’s motto guides them. It is Duty, Honor, Integrity. Cadets adhere to the Cadet Honor Code. A cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do.
Unlike other universities, students aren’t called freshmen or sophomores. They are referred to by their intake year. For example, 2002 or 20XX. Freshmen are colloquially known as tahun asas. Sophomores are tahun satu. Juniors are tahun dua. Seniors are tahun tiga. Super-seniors are tahun empat. Basic year is considered the most difficult. This is due to the rules and restrictions. They help students transition from civilian to military cadet.
Cadets can hold positions of responsibility. This comes with a cadet rank. A cadet can be a Cadet Corporal, Cadet Sergeant or Cadet CSM. They can also be a Cadet JUO or Cadet SUO.
The student body is divided into two groups. These groups are the Student Representative Council and the rank holder and cadet mess secretariat.
Graduates receive a bachelor’s degree. They are commissioned as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force. They have an obligation to serve 10 years. Eligibility for specialties depends on academic performance. It also depends on personal preference. Civilian graduates are guaranteed employment. This is in private and public sector firms.
The National Defence University of Malaysia stands as a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to its armed forces. It molds future leaders. These leaders uphold duty, honor and integrity.