UNMISET
United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor
Emotions
Tuesday, 23 July 2002. The moment I’ve been awaiting for have finally arrived. The day has come where I was fully suited up, geared in my ‘combat 4’ attire ready to go. In a moment, all 25 of us would board the bus to be escorted into the VIP complex whereby we would board the plane destined for Dili, East Timor. SPF UNPKF is sending 25 officers fro the United Nations Mission of support in East Timor (UNMISET).
From where I stood, at the families’ table, I could see a little nod from his head. That is a clear indication coming from our Contingent Commander; Superintendent Sze Ge Pek that the little precious time with our families is up. The ‘Sending-Off Ceremony’ has reached its climax. A sudden surge of emotions raced through me. I could feel the acceleration of my heartbeat. Why you may ask? I cannot find the answer. As the contingent walked in-line to salute our Command Elements, I was a figure of mixed reactions; happy, sad, proud and scared. This was worsened by the tears of my family members. As I kissed the hands of my mother, I asked for her blessings and prayers. She held me firm not wanting to let go and I knew deep inside that she was disheartened, yet happy to see me leave. I could sense that my family was so proud of me. Just before I board the bus, the last person at the end of the line was my fiancée. I could not bear to hold on for any longer and I simply kissed her forehead and immediately boarded the bus without looking back. I felt like weeping. This may appear unmanly (even though there are 2 woman officers in the contingent) but I believe everyone was psychologically affected for that period of time.
As I gazed at the crowd outside the bus, I could see a multitude of expressions from the crowd. Happy faces, worriedness and there were those who burst into tears! At this juncture, I was disoriented but luckily managed to compose myself and bade goodbye to all of them with a solemn smile.
As I waved to my family members and fellow friends, the bus slowly moved ahead, away from Airport Police Station leaving behind the crowd. “This is the moment of truth”, I said to myself. I knew then that I would have to learn to be away from the close bond of my family. The bus then continued its journey towards the VIP Complex of Terminal 2, Changi International Airport.
Departure of SQ 150
As I gazed at my Casio ‘G-shock’, the time indicates 1900 hours. I could hear over the PA system that the Captain of the plane was giving a final reminder for everyone to belt up and be ready for take off. A sudden jolt of energy and I could feel the thrust to my chest. With the plane accelerating fiercely, I looked through the window and the next moment it was airborne. I could see the entire airport and that we were leaving Singapore. As I look around at my fellow contingent members, I could see a certain excitement in their faces. Many of them are ‘seasoned’ mission-men due to their vast experience and a number of them are returning to East Timor for a second stint. 4 officers, inclusive of myself are the only fresh faces in the contingent. Coincidentally, I was also the youngest, at 24 years and 6 months old. I made a silent prayer asking God to be with all of us and may our journey and call of duty be safe and an eventful one.
Touch-Down : Timor Leste
On 24 July 2002 at 0940 hours, after a good night rest in a transit hotel in Bali, the contingent took off for a 2 ¼ hours connecting flight via ‘Merpati Air’ from Denpasar, Bali Indonesia. At approximately 1230 hours, our flight descended at Comoro Airport – Dili.
As I was getting my haversack from the overhead luggage compartment, I could feel the steady surge in temperature. What was initially a cool comfortable environment, the aeroplane suddenly felt like an oven! This was the result of a dramatic change of temperature. I then stepped out of the plane and as I walked down the passengers’ steps, I could feel the heat piercing through my skin. Luckily for us that a cool breeze welcomed our arrival. As I cleared the immigration, I was greeted with many familiar faces, particularly from UNPKF officers of the 3rd batch. This cheer is a sign of euphoria on their part, as we will be replacing them due to the conclusion of their 10 months tour of duty.
Acclimatization
After going through 5 days of Induction Training by the UN and a series of administrative matters, I was posted to the Strategic Planning Unit at the National UNPOL Headquarters in Dili together with SSI Hanafi Maharan. This came as a pleasant surprise as I had expected to be out in the districts doing fieldwork.
On 1st August 2002, all of us checked out of ‘Timor Lodge Hotel’ and were based in different houses. Singapore House No. 2 is the place that I would call home for the next 9 months and I reckon that this would be a new chapter in my life; living with a new family. Headed by Deputy Contingent Commander; DSP Lim Sin Bin, my fellow house mates include SSI Hanafi Maharan, SI Mohd Ridzuan, SSSgt Loh Chai Huat, SSgt Amarjeet Singh, SSgt Yusman Yahya, Sgt Ling Kian Yew and Sgt Mohd Imran.
One of the most distinctive differences that quickly filled me was that the capital of East Timor - Dili, was a very dusty environment. This pales in comparison to the districts as mentioned by my fellow contingent members.
Background of East Timor
Timor itself is a gargantuan island or also known as “Land of the Sleepy Crocodile”. Myth had it that the Timorese people revere and respect their native crocodile, from whence they are all said to have been a descendant. The story of the crocodile that became Timor (hence the shape of the island) is a crocodile, which died and became the island after having realized a little boy’s dream to travel the unseen seas. The crocodile died after finding the peace he had longed for and a place to rest.
East Timor (officially known as ‘Timor-Leste’) attracted Chinese and Malay traders in the early 15th century for its abundance of sandalwood, honey and wax. The creation of trading networks also resulted in intermarriages with local regal families. The same merchandise brought the Portuguese to the area in 1512. Their influence persisted and resulted in the colonization of the island, and particularly East Timor for over 400 years. Missionaries soon followed the traders and the Catholic faith became the dominant faith for the inhabitants of the island. Besides the Catholic faith, many Timorese have adhered to their traditional animist customs and rituals. The proliferation of trade also brought many other ethnic and religious groups, including people of the Islamic and Hindu faith.
During World War II, the allies (Australian and Dutch) engaged in heavy fighting with the Japanese forces in Timor. In 1945, Portuguese rule was restored in East Timor. Today’s East Timor portrays a rich and diverse community reflecting its varied and distinct historical influences, but most of all a friendly and welcoming people who are happy to have found peace at last.
East Timor Facts
Area: 154,000 sq km
Population: 800, 000+
Per capita income: US$200
· Languages: Portuguese and Tetum are official languages; Bahasa Indonesia is also widely spoken.
· Religion: 91.4% Roman Catholic, 2.6% Protestant, 1.7% Muslim. There are also Buddhist and Hindu communities in East Timor.
· Climate: Rainy season from November to June and dry season from July to October. Temperatures from 15°C in the mountains to 30°C and above on the north coast.
· Humidity: 75-85%
· Currency: The US dollar is the official currency. There are legal restrictions on the importation of certain affected currencies into East Timor without a Government-issued licence.
(Facts on Timor courtesy of Department of Tourism)
Home away from home
From the moment that the 1st batch of Singapore Contingent for UNMISET arrived in Dili, it struck my mind that I’ll be living in a home, away from home.
My ‘family’ comprise of people from all walks of life. Though I may be the youngest in the contingent, it does not exclude me from the basic tasks & responsibilities living under the same roof. Everyone has a role to play; from marketing for groceries, keeping tabs on expenditure, cooking daily meals, house chores and taking out the trash.
On a personal level, this Mission taught me to be more independent and grateful for the basic necessities that I may take for granted at times. Simple things such as water flowing at a turn of a tap, constant continuous flow of electricity and the comfort of a firm bed to snuggle up on.
One of the most exciting things that I always look forward to is making contacts with new friends. It may be in the form of the local people or fellow colleagues of different nationality. Colleagues are aplenty with a majority of them from the ETPS (East Timor Police Service) and the various UNPOLs from all over the world.
The first 3 months
During my tenure as OIC Policy Planning in the Strategic Planning Unit, it exposed me to many different offices, liaison with multi-nationals in order to complete my assignments.
After a period of adapting to the local environment, I was able to strike a chord with quite a number of UNPOLs, ranging from the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Brazil, Nepal and even Ghana. Though their working style may differ, however, all of them have a similar objective in mind; that is to complete the task assigned or render assistance / guidance to the ETPOs (Police Officers) that is under their charge.
Along the course of duty, many friends were made. One of the key elements that the Singapore Contingent possesses is the ability to converse in Bahasa Indonesia. This was after a fruitful course prior departure into Mission Area whereby all of us undergone lessons & tests in the said language. Since Bahasa Indonesia & Malay language is not that far apart, I was able to carry out my tasks expeditiously, especially in liaising with the ETPOs. More often than not, I was able to do translation of text from Bahasa to English, rather than engaging a translator.
Among some memorable things that happened during the first 3 months was the opportunity to witness multiple “Medal Presentation” by many countries. It showcased their style & flavour, which transcend into the whole presentation. During such a medal presentation, the UN key elements would be present to witness the incident. The UNPOL Commissioner; Mr Peter J Miller would then pin the UN medal on the chests of every officers receiving it. I do believe that those officers are proud of their contribution in the mission and are recognized for their efforts.
Leisure & Recreation time
During after office hour period, there will be many activities that are taken up by the House 2 family. Among the favoured activity is a ‘Healthy Lifestyle’. As a matter of fact, jogging is a normal routine everyday. Among the other sports & exercises are mountain hiking, tennis, soccer and even a workout in our ‘makeshift gym’.
After such activities, all of us would then head home to wash up and all of House 2 family will then start to prepare dinner. Everyone will have something to do from the basic cleaning up of the dining table, mopping the floor, chop the vegetables and even preparing the dishes. Though exotic cuisines could not be dished out during such dinners, all of us are appreciative and grateful to our house Chefs, namely; DSP Lim Sin Bin, SSI Hanafi & SI Ridzuan. Dinner will be the highlight of the day as all of us are together and dine as a family.
Since soccer is a popular game among the contingent members, SSI Hanafi then spearheaded a formation of a soccer team. Comprising of various Nationals, the team was dubbed ‘Team Cosmopolitan’. Numerous informal kick-about sessions were converted onto the playing field.
An inaugural match was arranged on the 19th of October 2002 at Dili Stadium. Our team was up against the UN International Staff & some UNPOLs from different units. Here is a picture of ‘Team Cosmopolitan’ in its blazing orange kit.
Though the team lost in its first ‘unofficiated’ match, they gained in terms of team spirit & camaraderie ship. I am looking forward to the next training session to further enhance the bond that was built in order to play effectively as a unit. Once the team has ‘gelled’ together, a competitive match can be arranged in the future, so watch out for it!
Bali blasted to ashes
I was awaken by a rude shock when I read the news on the morning of 12th October to learn that a popular night spot “Sari Club” in Bali, Indonesia was hit by a car bomb. I was there on CTO about a week before the incident. Immediately, it came to my mind that it must have been the well-organized work of a terrorist group. The death toll reached 187 with many more injured with burns.
It never occurred to my mind, that such a popular tourist attraction would be a target of such an attack. The aftermath of the devastating attack resulted to the loss of tourism to the popular destination that boasts scenic landscapes, variety of cultural shows, and numerous nightspots. The place is renowned for it’s famed ‘all night long parties’ for 365 days in a year.
Immediately after the incident, a directive was circulated among all UN personnel that restrict holidays to the said destination. Since Jakarta, Bali & Lombok is in Security Phase 1; movement into the places was minimized fearing further similar attacks.
I pray for all the innocent lives lost during the said attack and God Willing, may Bali be restored to its previous state in time to come.
Personal Journal Entry : 20th October 2002
United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor
Emotions
Tuesday, 23 July 2002. The moment I’ve been awaiting for have finally arrived. The day has come where I was fully suited up, geared in my ‘combat 4’ attire ready to go. In a moment, all 25 of us would board the bus to be escorted into the VIP complex whereby we would board the plane destined for Dili, East Timor. SPF UNPKF is sending 25 officers fro the United Nations Mission of support in East Timor (UNMISET).
From where I stood, at the families’ table, I could see a little nod from his head. That is a clear indication coming from our Contingent Commander; Superintendent Sze Ge Pek that the little precious time with our families is up. The ‘Sending-Off Ceremony’ has reached its climax. A sudden surge of emotions raced through me. I could feel the acceleration of my heartbeat. Why you may ask? I cannot find the answer. As the contingent walked in-line to salute our Command Elements, I was a figure of mixed reactions; happy, sad, proud and scared. This was worsened by the tears of my family members. As I kissed the hands of my mother, I asked for her blessings and prayers. She held me firm not wanting to let go and I knew deep inside that she was disheartened, yet happy to see me leave. I could sense that my family was so proud of me. Just before I board the bus, the last person at the end of the line was my fiancée. I could not bear to hold on for any longer and I simply kissed her forehead and immediately boarded the bus without looking back. I felt like weeping. This may appear unmanly (even though there are 2 woman officers in the contingent) but I believe everyone was psychologically affected for that period of time.
As I gazed at the crowd outside the bus, I could see a multitude of expressions from the crowd. Happy faces, worriedness and there were those who burst into tears! At this juncture, I was disoriented but luckily managed to compose myself and bade goodbye to all of them with a solemn smile.
As I waved to my family members and fellow friends, the bus slowly moved ahead, away from Airport Police Station leaving behind the crowd. “This is the moment of truth”, I said to myself. I knew then that I would have to learn to be away from the close bond of my family. The bus then continued its journey towards the VIP Complex of Terminal 2, Changi International Airport.
Departure of SQ 150
As I gazed at my Casio ‘G-shock’, the time indicates 1900 hours. I could hear over the PA system that the Captain of the plane was giving a final reminder for everyone to belt up and be ready for take off. A sudden jolt of energy and I could feel the thrust to my chest. With the plane accelerating fiercely, I looked through the window and the next moment it was airborne. I could see the entire airport and that we were leaving Singapore. As I look around at my fellow contingent members, I could see a certain excitement in their faces. Many of them are ‘seasoned’ mission-men due to their vast experience and a number of them are returning to East Timor for a second stint. 4 officers, inclusive of myself are the only fresh faces in the contingent. Coincidentally, I was also the youngest, at 24 years and 6 months old. I made a silent prayer asking God to be with all of us and may our journey and call of duty be safe and an eventful one.
Touch-Down : Timor Leste
On 24 July 2002 at 0940 hours, after a good night rest in a transit hotel in Bali, the contingent took off for a 2 ¼ hours connecting flight via ‘Merpati Air’ from Denpasar, Bali Indonesia. At approximately 1230 hours, our flight descended at Comoro Airport – Dili.
As I was getting my haversack from the overhead luggage compartment, I could feel the steady surge in temperature. What was initially a cool comfortable environment, the aeroplane suddenly felt like an oven! This was the result of a dramatic change of temperature. I then stepped out of the plane and as I walked down the passengers’ steps, I could feel the heat piercing through my skin. Luckily for us that a cool breeze welcomed our arrival. As I cleared the immigration, I was greeted with many familiar faces, particularly from UNPKF officers of the 3rd batch. This cheer is a sign of euphoria on their part, as we will be replacing them due to the conclusion of their 10 months tour of duty.
Acclimatization
After going through 5 days of Induction Training by the UN and a series of administrative matters, I was posted to the Strategic Planning Unit at the National UNPOL Headquarters in Dili together with SSI Hanafi Maharan. This came as a pleasant surprise as I had expected to be out in the districts doing fieldwork.
On 1st August 2002, all of us checked out of ‘Timor Lodge Hotel’ and were based in different houses. Singapore House No. 2 is the place that I would call home for the next 9 months and I reckon that this would be a new chapter in my life; living with a new family. Headed by Deputy Contingent Commander; DSP Lim Sin Bin, my fellow house mates include SSI Hanafi Maharan, SI Mohd Ridzuan, SSSgt Loh Chai Huat, SSgt Amarjeet Singh, SSgt Yusman Yahya, Sgt Ling Kian Yew and Sgt Mohd Imran.
One of the most distinctive differences that quickly filled me was that the capital of East Timor - Dili, was a very dusty environment. This pales in comparison to the districts as mentioned by my fellow contingent members.
Background of East Timor
Timor itself is a gargantuan island or also known as “Land of the Sleepy Crocodile”. Myth had it that the Timorese people revere and respect their native crocodile, from whence they are all said to have been a descendant. The story of the crocodile that became Timor (hence the shape of the island) is a crocodile, which died and became the island after having realized a little boy’s dream to travel the unseen seas. The crocodile died after finding the peace he had longed for and a place to rest.
East Timor (officially known as ‘Timor-Leste’) attracted Chinese and Malay traders in the early 15th century for its abundance of sandalwood, honey and wax. The creation of trading networks also resulted in intermarriages with local regal families. The same merchandise brought the Portuguese to the area in 1512. Their influence persisted and resulted in the colonization of the island, and particularly East Timor for over 400 years. Missionaries soon followed the traders and the Catholic faith became the dominant faith for the inhabitants of the island. Besides the Catholic faith, many Timorese have adhered to their traditional animist customs and rituals. The proliferation of trade also brought many other ethnic and religious groups, including people of the Islamic and Hindu faith.
During World War II, the allies (Australian and Dutch) engaged in heavy fighting with the Japanese forces in Timor. In 1945, Portuguese rule was restored in East Timor. Today’s East Timor portrays a rich and diverse community reflecting its varied and distinct historical influences, but most of all a friendly and welcoming people who are happy to have found peace at last.
East Timor Facts
Area: 154,000 sq km
Population: 800, 000+
Per capita income: US$200
· Languages: Portuguese and Tetum are official languages; Bahasa Indonesia is also widely spoken.
· Religion: 91.4% Roman Catholic, 2.6% Protestant, 1.7% Muslim. There are also Buddhist and Hindu communities in East Timor.
· Climate: Rainy season from November to June and dry season from July to October. Temperatures from 15°C in the mountains to 30°C and above on the north coast.
· Humidity: 75-85%
· Currency: The US dollar is the official currency. There are legal restrictions on the importation of certain affected currencies into East Timor without a Government-issued licence.
(Facts on Timor courtesy of Department of Tourism)
Home away from home
From the moment that the 1st batch of Singapore Contingent for UNMISET arrived in Dili, it struck my mind that I’ll be living in a home, away from home.
My ‘family’ comprise of people from all walks of life. Though I may be the youngest in the contingent, it does not exclude me from the basic tasks & responsibilities living under the same roof. Everyone has a role to play; from marketing for groceries, keeping tabs on expenditure, cooking daily meals, house chores and taking out the trash.
On a personal level, this Mission taught me to be more independent and grateful for the basic necessities that I may take for granted at times. Simple things such as water flowing at a turn of a tap, constant continuous flow of electricity and the comfort of a firm bed to snuggle up on.
One of the most exciting things that I always look forward to is making contacts with new friends. It may be in the form of the local people or fellow colleagues of different nationality. Colleagues are aplenty with a majority of them from the ETPS (East Timor Police Service) and the various UNPOLs from all over the world.
The first 3 months
During my tenure as OIC Policy Planning in the Strategic Planning Unit, it exposed me to many different offices, liaison with multi-nationals in order to complete my assignments.
After a period of adapting to the local environment, I was able to strike a chord with quite a number of UNPOLs, ranging from the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Brazil, Nepal and even Ghana. Though their working style may differ, however, all of them have a similar objective in mind; that is to complete the task assigned or render assistance / guidance to the ETPOs (Police Officers) that is under their charge.
Along the course of duty, many friends were made. One of the key elements that the Singapore Contingent possesses is the ability to converse in Bahasa Indonesia. This was after a fruitful course prior departure into Mission Area whereby all of us undergone lessons & tests in the said language. Since Bahasa Indonesia & Malay language is not that far apart, I was able to carry out my tasks expeditiously, especially in liaising with the ETPOs. More often than not, I was able to do translation of text from Bahasa to English, rather than engaging a translator.
Among some memorable things that happened during the first 3 months was the opportunity to witness multiple “Medal Presentation” by many countries. It showcased their style & flavour, which transcend into the whole presentation. During such a medal presentation, the UN key elements would be present to witness the incident. The UNPOL Commissioner; Mr Peter J Miller would then pin the UN medal on the chests of every officers receiving it. I do believe that those officers are proud of their contribution in the mission and are recognized for their efforts.
Leisure & Recreation time
During after office hour period, there will be many activities that are taken up by the House 2 family. Among the favoured activity is a ‘Healthy Lifestyle’. As a matter of fact, jogging is a normal routine everyday. Among the other sports & exercises are mountain hiking, tennis, soccer and even a workout in our ‘makeshift gym’.
After such activities, all of us would then head home to wash up and all of House 2 family will then start to prepare dinner. Everyone will have something to do from the basic cleaning up of the dining table, mopping the floor, chop the vegetables and even preparing the dishes. Though exotic cuisines could not be dished out during such dinners, all of us are appreciative and grateful to our house Chefs, namely; DSP Lim Sin Bin, SSI Hanafi & SI Ridzuan. Dinner will be the highlight of the day as all of us are together and dine as a family.
Since soccer is a popular game among the contingent members, SSI Hanafi then spearheaded a formation of a soccer team. Comprising of various Nationals, the team was dubbed ‘Team Cosmopolitan’. Numerous informal kick-about sessions were converted onto the playing field.
An inaugural match was arranged on the 19th of October 2002 at Dili Stadium. Our team was up against the UN International Staff & some UNPOLs from different units. Here is a picture of ‘Team Cosmopolitan’ in its blazing orange kit.
Though the team lost in its first ‘unofficiated’ match, they gained in terms of team spirit & camaraderie ship. I am looking forward to the next training session to further enhance the bond that was built in order to play effectively as a unit. Once the team has ‘gelled’ together, a competitive match can be arranged in the future, so watch out for it!
Bali blasted to ashes
I was awaken by a rude shock when I read the news on the morning of 12th October to learn that a popular night spot “Sari Club” in Bali, Indonesia was hit by a car bomb. I was there on CTO about a week before the incident. Immediately, it came to my mind that it must have been the well-organized work of a terrorist group. The death toll reached 187 with many more injured with burns.
It never occurred to my mind, that such a popular tourist attraction would be a target of such an attack. The aftermath of the devastating attack resulted to the loss of tourism to the popular destination that boasts scenic landscapes, variety of cultural shows, and numerous nightspots. The place is renowned for it’s famed ‘all night long parties’ for 365 days in a year.
Immediately after the incident, a directive was circulated among all UN personnel that restrict holidays to the said destination. Since Jakarta, Bali & Lombok is in Security Phase 1; movement into the places was minimized fearing further similar attacks.
I pray for all the innocent lives lost during the said attack and God Willing, may Bali be restored to its previous state in time to come.
Personal Journal Entry : 20th October 2002
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2 comments:
Boy, you did not mention, on your arrival in Dili, when you saw me, a tear ran down that small corner of your eye. You wanted to give me a bear hug right? Hehehe. Remember, MSA, CTO and EOM, the rest can chuck aside, heehaa!!! WE SURVIVED ET!!!
Juan, you do know deep down we should have been in ET together. Indeed, seeing you again in Comorro Airport was a blessing after 9 months of you being away. Survived a year indeed both Hepi Feat & Boy Wonder! (",)
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