FOR most people, even catching sight of a snake is enough to send shivers down the spine.
But for a Civil Defence Force (APM) woman officer in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, confronting venomous reptiles is simply part of the job.
Over her 16-year career, Second Lieutenant (PA) Farah Nadia Abdullah, 38, has handled more than 700 snake cases, including highly venomous species such as king cobras and monocled cobras.
Farah Nadia said courage and a deep understanding of reptile behaviour were essential to ensuring the safety of both officers and the public.
“I learned from a colleague skilled in snake handling how to read their behaviour and safely tame them,” she told Bernama.
“When I receive an emergency call, I always ask whether the snake has been hit, because it tends to be more aggressive afterwards.
“When I arrive at a scene, I observe the snake’s position and movements first to assess its level of aggression.
“The hardest to handle are king cobras because of their fierce nature and rapid movements,” she said.
She added that her affinity for snake handling was inspired by her late grandfather Tahir Bidin, once a renowned snake catcher.
With her natural talent and professional APM training, Farah Nadia is determined to show that women can excel in a field long dominated by men.
Junior Officer (PA) Nurin Qurratu Ain Norrozi said some people had questioned her decision to join APM, saying women like her should be in the kitchen or an office.
“But I show them how passionate I am about this work and my desire to help as many people as possible,” she said.
APM deputy director (Operations) Major (PA) Mohd Hafiz Asikin said 100 of the state’s 380 personnel were women, with almost all trained to handle venomous animals.
He said all new recruits must complete basic and venomous animal handling courses at either the state training centre or APM headquarters.
