Author: Dato’ Sasikala Devi Subramanian
Company: Royal Malaysia Police, Mega Fortris Berhad,Tune Talk Sdn Bhd
Profession: Retired Police Officer, Directorship
Position: Former Deputy Chief Police Officer of Selangor, Current: Independent Director of Mega Fortris Berhad and Tune Talk Sdn Bhd
“She Rises: Writing Power, Lighting Up the Future”
By Dato’ Sasikala Devi A/P Subramaniam
Part 1: Past Experiences and Challenges
There were moments in my life when the path ahead seemed uncertain and demanding. Growing up, I came from a modest family. My late mother had sacrificed her own dream of becoming a nurse due to circumstances beyond her control. She carried that unfulfilled dream quietly, and I could see the silent disappointment in her eyes. That became my early lesson in resilience.
When I joined the Royal Malaysia Police in 1989, it was a male-dominated environment. The training was tough, physically and mentally. There were moments when I questioned whether I truly belonged. As a young woman officer, I had to constantly prove that I was capable, competent, and resilient. My career progression also stalled for nearly ten years at one stage. Watching peers advance while I remained at the same rank tested my patience and confidence.
Balancing marriage, motherhood, and a demanding career added another layer of challenge. There were days I returned home exhausted, wondering if I was doing enough—as an officer, as a wife, and as a mother. But I reminded myself that struggles are not signs of weakness. They are lessons in strength.
I walked through the darkness by holding firmly to my values—discipline, integrity, and commitment. Most importantly, I held onto the belief my mother instilled in me: education and financial independence are a woman’s greatest security.
Part 2: Current State and Transformation
My journey did not change overnight. It was built step by step—with persistence. I continued studying while serving in the police force, completing my Master’s degree and law qualifications despite long working hours. Education strengthened my confidence and sharpened my leadership.
A turning point came when I realized that breaking the glass ceiling was not just about personal ambition—it was about representation. When I was promoted to Deputy Commissioner of Police and later became the first woman Deputy Chief Police Officer of Selangor, I understood that my achievement was symbolic. It showed that women can lead at the highest levels in uniformed service.
Today, I am grateful for the growth that came from adversity. I have become stronger, more patient, and more inclusive in my leadership. I value teamwork and mentorship, and I believe in uplifting younger officers—especially women—so that they do not feel alone in their journey.
The change I am most grateful for is inner confidence. I no longer question whether I belong. I know I do.
Part 3: Message and Blessing for the Future
This journey has taught me that success is not about perfection. It is about perseverance. Every struggle carries a lesson. Every delay carries preparation.
To the young woman who feels uncertain or overwhelmed: do not underestimate your strength. Focus on education. Build your independence. Stay disciplined. Be humble but never small. There will be obstacles, and sometimes you may feel invisible—but continue to work with passion and integrity.
You cannot have everything at the same time, but you can have it all across time—with balance, sacrifice, and wise choices.
My blessing to every young woman is this:
May you be strong in mind, courageous in action, and graceful in leadership. May you rise not only for yourself, but to light the path for others.
COMMUNITY & ADVISORY ROLES
Protem Committee for AI Business Chamber Council Member – Knights Award
Advisor – World Youth Book of Records ( Malaysia )
Advisor – Digital Security of Malaysia Association
KEY CAREER HIGHLIGHTS – ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE
Deputy Commissioner of Police/ Deputy Chief Police Officer, Selangor Contingent
Deputy Commissioner of Police/ Deputy Director of Investigation, Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID), Bukit Aman Headquarters
Senior Assistant Commissioner/ Principal Assistant Director of Finance & Corporate Investigation, CCID, Bukit Aman
Assistant Commissioner of Police/ Assistant Director of Legal & Investigation of Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID), Bukit Aman
Superintendent of Police/ Assistant Director of Special Investigation NCID, Bukit Aman
Deputy Superintendent of Police/ Assistant Director of International Liaison NCID, Bukit Aman
Assistant Superintendent of Police/ Investigation Officer CCID, Bukit Aman
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Kesatria Mangku Negara (KMN)
Darjah Indera Mahkota Pahang (D.I.M.P.)
Paduka Mahkota Perak (PMP)
Johan Setia Mahkota (JSM)
Panglima Setia Pasukan Polis (PSPP)
Kesatria Mahkota Wilayah (KMW)
Pingat Jasa Pahlawan Negara (PJPN)
Best Cadet -Royal Malaysia Police ( Squad 1/89 )
Iron Lady Awards – Safety Marshal Club; Desam Media; Safety First
Lifetime Achievement Award by Take Care International Foundation
Best Service Award by Nambikkai Star
Top 30 Best Women In The ASEAN Security
Top 50 Professional And Career Women Global 2024
3rd Malaysian Women’s Achievement Celebration 2024 Lifetime Achievement by Business & Professional Women (BPW) Malaysia
Pinnacle Award by Youth United Council of India 2025
Cumig Golden Award by CUMIG 2025
International Letters of Appreciation – Australian Federal Police, DEA (USA) and Central Narcotics Bureau, Singapore