Two teams, one debut — MCOPS storms the river to clinch 1st and 4th place in a thrilling showcase of teamwork, strength and determination.
By HP Ahmad
MELAKA, Nov 20 – In a dramatic display of grit and unity, the MCOPS Paddlers stunned the competition at the inaugural Dragon Boat Tug of War, powering their way to 1st and 4th place despite entering the event for the very first time. Held in conjunction with the Sungai Melaka Festival and organised by Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai dan Pantai Melaka, the event saw 30 teams battling head-to-head in one of the most intense river competitions ever staged in the state.
For Mohd Azmil Azwa Amir Azwa, Traffic Enforcement Officer (Pegawai Penguatkuasa / Kawalan Lalulintas Trafik IPD Tangkak) and former MCOPS team manager, the victory carries extra meaning. The team had never competed in a Tug of War (TOW) format before.
Mohd Azmil Azwa Amir Azwa, former MCOPS team manager – the victory carries extra meaning
“We only wanted to try participating in this newly introduced event in Melaka,” he said. “Our team previously only joined straight-course dragon boat races. This was our first time entering a TOW competition.”
A Longstanding Commitment to Dragon Boat Sports
Despite being new to TOW racing, MCOPS has long supported dragon boat competitions nationwide.
“Our team always gives full support to every competition involving dragon boat sports throughout Malaysia, especially in Melaka,” Mohd Azmil explained.
A Unique Blend of Police Officers and Civilians
The team represents a remarkable combination of discipline and community spirit. MCOPS comprises members from the PDRM Melaka Contingent alongside civilian paddlers from across the state.
“These paddlers have never participated in a TOW race,” Mohd Azmil noted. “This was only straight-course racing for us. Everything here was new.”
Teamwork First, Victory Second — But Victory Still Came
Mohd Azmil emphasised that the team entered the competition not to win, but to learn.
“Races like this require cooperation among all players in the boat to reach the finish line smoothly,” he said. “We only wanted to gain more knowledge and experience. If we achieved a Top 5 placing, that would already be a bonus for us.”
A display of medals and prize boards earned by the MCOPS Paddlers, highlighting their impressive 1st and 4th place finishes in the competition’s inaugural edition.
What the team viewed as a bonus turned into a breakthrough: emerging as champions in their debut appearance, while their second team secured an impressive fourth place among 30 competing teams.
A Call for Support and Sponsorship
With their unexpected triumph, MCOPS hopes more organisations will step forward to support their development.
“We hope there are parties who are willing to sponsor our team—whether material or financial—to help us grow and participate in competitions inside and outside Melaka,” he added.
Looking Ahead: A Team Ready for More
When asked about the team’s future plans, Mohd Azmil was resolute.
“Yes, InsyaAllah. If there are no constraints or work commitments, our team will continue to participate in and support every water sports event, especially dragon boat competitions in Melaka,” he said.
With passion, unity and newfound experience, the MCOPS Paddlers have shown they are a force ready to rise even higher on the Malaysian dragon boat scene.
MCOPS paddlers competing in the Dragon Boat Tug of War event on the Melaka River, demonstrating teamwork and strength in the sport’s inaugural state competition.
- TNS NEWS