Peacekeepers’ tasks vary according to mandates from the UN Security Council. Each mandate is different according to the nature of conflicts and threats to peace. Some of the common responsibilities involve preventing outbreaks of conflict, stabilising conflict situations, assisting with the implementation of peace agreements, and assisting states to transition to stable governments through democratic principles.

Most missions are in countries facing hardship where there are significant security risks and where there is likely to be a long road of recovery in rebuilding what had been lost due to conflict and displacement of people. There are currently 12 active peacekeeping operations across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

During my 19 years of service with the Royal Malaysia Police, I was fortunate to be entrusted with responsibilities ranging from intelligence to crime prevention and management. However, when the department advertised for expressions of interest for a peacekeeping tour of duty with United Nations Police (UNPOL), I thought it would be an opportunity to seek a fresh professional and international challenge.

Follow the full story of the Contingent Commander (CC) of the Malaysian UNPOL, Superintendant Dr. Sivabalan Suppiah who recounted his experience who had the opportunity to serve as an UNPOL police officer in southern Sudan for a year in the following link, https://www.thestar.com.my/.../malaysian-policeman-goes....