Trailblazing woman: Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (right) congratulating Ang at the Dewan Sri Pinang lobby.
GEORGE TOWN: In an era when women’s empowerment was largely unheard of, Ang Kim Choo took a bold step by joining the volunteer police movement.
It was 1954 during the British colonial era.
Appointed as a special constable, she was tasked with safeguarding the neighbourhoods and patrolling the forest areas that were exposed to elements of the communist insurgency in Penang.
“We were up against armed guerillas.
“It was challenging for me, but I was determined to serve,” said the centenarian, adding that at that time, special constables were not given any training.
When the situation in the country stabilised and national security forces needed fewer members, Ang, who is now 101, decided to retire in 1960.
Despite being active for only a few years, Ang said it was a memorable experience and she was proud to have been able to serve the nation in some way.
Besides encounters with communists, Ang said she also had to face the triad gangs that thrived in schools and certain unseemly areas then.
All her work did not go unnoticed when Ang recently received the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) award in conjunction with Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak’s 74th birthday celebration at Dewan Sri Pinang.
Her story was also shared by the state publication Buletin Mutiara.
Ang, who now has five children and 12 grandchildren, said she was touched to be recognised for her service after more than 60 years.
Penang social development, welfare and non-Islamic religious affairs committee chairman Lim Siew Khim said she was thrilled to have met Ang, whom she fondly called “Aunty Kim.”
“I am glad that she was accorded this well-deserved award from the state for her contribution.
“Aunty Kim’s life story serves as a shining example of bravery and determination.
“In an era where women faced significant challenges and discrimination, she fearlessly pursued a career as a police officer.
“Her journey reminds us that when women find the courage within themselves, they can overcome any obstacle,” said Lim.
She added that Aunty Kim’s story should inspire and encourage today’s women to take bold steps towards their dreams.
