Paskal 2019

In 2018, Malaysia distinguished itself as the first nation to initiate military operations against piracy in the Gulf of Aden, driven by the need to protect its oil reserves. During one fateful night, a supertanker named Laurel 11, reminiscent of the real-life vessel Bunga Laurel, fell victim to a hijacking orchestrated by Somali pirates. Responding to the urgent distress signal, the Royal Malaysian Navy dispatched the MT Bunga Mas Lima, which was returning home after a prolonged deployment at sea.

Faced with the pirates’ refusal to negotiate, Commander Maznan (portrayed by Nam Ron) made the crucial decision to deploy the elite special operations unit, PASKAL, under the dynamic leadership of Lieutenant Commander Arman Rahmat (Hairul Azreen). A born leader, Arman is shaped by his father’s legacy, who also served in PASKAL alongside Commander Maznan and Admiral Kamarulzaman. The Navy’s tactical response employed two boats and a Lynx helicopter, enabling them to execute a stealthy operation that ultimately led to the capture of the pirates.

Among Arman’s team were Lieutenant Khairil Fikri bin Abdul Musa (Ustad) (Taufiq Hanafi), Chief Petty Officer Shailesh Marimuthu (Misi) (Theebaan G), Petty Officer Imran Tamrin bin Radzi (Yan) (Hafizul Kamal), and Petty Officer Adam Ashraf bin Hanafi (Gagak) (Gambit Saifullah). Returning to Lumut, Arman finds himself contemplating retirement, influenced by his mother’s vocal concern about his perilous career and his own burden of past memories.

Flashback to 2009, when Arman was a sub-lieutenant in training with his late comrade Joshua Tee Seng Wai (Girang) (Henley Hii), a fellow PASKAL commando. Tragically, Joshua was killed by Jeb (Ammar Alfian), a man unhinged by jealousy and aggression, during a chaotic mission in Angola. Jeb’s behavior quickly spiraled out of control, leading to the untimely death of Joshua during an operation where the situation escalated into violence after he tossed a grenade back at the enemy, inadvertently killing Joshua in the crossfire. The ramifications of that incident led Jeb to a dishonorable discharge and fueled his descent into a life of mercenary work under Rudi (Amerul Affendi).

As Arman continues to support Joshua’s widow, Lily (Jasmine Suraya Chin), he receives permission for an alleged farewell reconnaissance mission aimed at capturing Rudi, who had been linked to the hijacking of the MT Orkim Harmony. However, fate intervenes when Arman unexpectedly spots Jeb dining with Rudi at a food court. It soon becomes evident that Rudi, leveraging his successful raids, had recruited Jeb as his bodyguard.

The rivalry between Arman and Jeb escalates as Jeb’s obsession with Lily becomes apparent, leading to direct confrontations. After identifying a security threat tied to an oil rig where Lily works, and outmaneuvering Jeb’s plans, Arman mobilizes the Navy to avert a potential catastrophe. Although the Navy captures a rogue security group, Jeb and Rudi manage to slip away, taking Lily hostage.

Arman’s team swiftly assembles for a maritime operation, utilizing an RMAF C-130 and the cutting-edge KD Tunku Abdul Rahman submarine to engage the danger presented by the oil rig hijacking. Their mission entails overcoming a series of ingenious traps set by the pirates. Ultimately, Arman confronts Jeb, who holds Lily hostage on a rig rigged with explosives.

During the climactic face-off, Jeb’s challenge brings forth a grueling showdown. Arman, demonstrating resilience, manages to turn the tide against his rival, culminating in a tragic yet inevitable conclusion as Jeb, unwilling to concede defeat, meets his demise. Rudi and another pirate make a desperate escape attempt but are swiftly neutralized by the Navy.

With the hostages freed and back ashore, a significant reconciliation unfolds. Arman’s mother finally comprehends her son’s sacrifices and offers her heartfelt apologies, acknowledging that his father would be proud of his valor. In a moment of reflection, the depths of war and camaraderie resonate as Arman regrets not knowing his comrades’ full names. Chief Petty Officer Misi’s poignant retort echoes through his thoughts: “How many kingdoms know nothing of us?”—a solemn reminder of the uncelebrated sacrifices made in the name of duty. As Arman stands at a memorial honoring his father’s legacy, the significance of his service becomes a resounding affirmation of honor and obligation within the sphere of sacrifice.