Master English, Sultan urges

The Star

ALOR STAR: The Sultan of Pahang has directed Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) personnel to master the English language to enhance their skills in handling hi-tech devices.

Sultan Ahmad Shah Sultan Abu Bakar, who is RMAF’s colonel-in-chief, said those who are fluent in the language have better career opportunities.

“The job scopes of armed personnel have become more challenging with the advent of information technology and advances in modern technology.

“You (RMAF personnel) must enhance efforts to master the language (English) and use it in your daily lives especially when discharging duties,” he said in his speech read out by the Tengku Mahkota Pahang, Tengku Abdullah, at the Air Force College’s graduation ceremony in Kepala Batas near here yesterday.

Best in their categories: Lt Kamal (right) and Lt Lo congratulating each other and chatting near a Skyhawk jet fighter after receiving their awards in Kepala Batas yesterday.

He said the armed forces had acquired hi-tech assets in line with its modernisation.

“As English is an internationally accepted medium of communication, it is vital to master the language to understand modern technology. With exposure to knowledge, I am confident you (RMAF personnel) can handle the (hi-tech) assets and guard national airspace.”

Tengku Abdullah presented scrolls to 44 diploma graduates.

Lt Kamal Hilmi Kamarulzaman was named the best overall cadet graduate and Lt Lo Chee Sing the best cadet graduate in academics.

Lt Kamal received the Sultan Ahmad Shah challenge trophy and a sword of honour. Lt Lo, from Sabah, received the Panglima Pendidikan Udara trophy.

Lt Kamal, 23, said he wanted to be a fighter pilot like his father, Kol Kamarulzaman Mohd Othman.

“I feel proud that my son is named the best overall cadet,” said Kol Kamarulzaman, 48.

Lt Lo, 22, also aims to be a fighter pilot.