Rashid Isa, a marine engineering cadet at Bandari Maritime Academy, has described his recognition as the best parade commander during the institution’s regimental training for newly admitted cadets as a reflection of years of personal discipline, leadership development, and consistent mentorship experiences that shaped his character long before joining the academy.
Isa said the award did not come as a surprise to him in the sense of luck or chance, but rather as the result of a leadership journey that began much earlier in his life. He explained that while still in high school, he actively took up student leadership roles, which exposed him to responsibility at a young age. These early roles, he noted, were instrumental in helping him understand how to guide peers, resolve small conflicts, and represent the interests of fellow students.
According to Isa, his participation in the regimental training at the academy further sharpened these abilities. He highlighted that the training environment was highly structured and demanding, designed to build discipline, unity, and resilience among new cadets. Through drills, strict routines, and continuous evaluation, he said cadets were pushed to develop a strong sense of order and responsibility.
He further commended the academy’s training system for its emphasis on core values such as punctuality, respect for authority, teamwork, and personal accountability. In his view, these values are not just relevant within the academy setting, but are also transferable to life after graduation. He pointed out that the maritime sector demands individuals who can operate in highly coordinated environments, often under pressure, where leadership is not optional but necessary for safety and efficiency.
Isa reflected on the broader significance of leadership in his chosen field, noting that many of the cadets currently undergoing training are likely to occupy leadership positions once they complete their studies. He explained that maritime professionals often rise through structured ranks, where decision-making responsibilities increase over time. Because of this, he believes early exposure to leadership training is essential in preparing cadets for future roles where they will be expected to give direction, manage teams, and ensure operational standards are maintained.
He also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve as parade commander during the training, describing it as both an honor and a learning experience. According to him, leading fellow cadets in parade drills required not only confidence but also the ability to remain calm under pressure, maintain focus, and ensure that instructions were executed with precision. He added that the role helped him strengthen his communication skills and reinforced the importance of leading by example rather than authority alone.
Isa concluded by stating that his achievement motivates him to continue developing his leadership abilities as he progresses through his studies. He remains committed to excelling academically and professionally, with the goal of contributing meaningfully to the maritime industry in the future.
