“Serving the nation is not just a profession for us, it is a responsibility we carry with pride.”

This spirit of resilience and dedication perfectly reflects the journey of sisters Rehvathi Krishnan and Komathi Krishnan, two Malaysian police inspectors whose paths in uniform are not only a story of service, but also a tribute to family, discipline, and perseverance.

Born and raised in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor, the sisters grew up in a household where service and discipline were deeply valued. Their father worked as civil staff at the Police Training College in Kuala Kubu Bharu, and although life was not always easy, his dedication left a lasting impression on the family.

Today, both daughters proudly serve in the Royal Malaysia Police, a journey their father once dreamed about.

For Inspector Rehvathi Krishnan, the road to the police force was not something she had originally planned. She studied at SJK(T) Kuala Kubu Bharu and later SMK Kuala Kubu Bharu before continuing her higher education at Universiti Selangor and Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, where she completed her degree and master’s studies.

Her early ambition was to become a teacher.

“My journey started in education because I genuinely loved guiding and shaping young minds. During my practicum, I realised how important discipline, values, and mentorship are in building a strong generation,” she shared.

However, deep within her, there was always a stronger calling.

“Joining the police force gave me the opportunity to serve the community on a larger scale. As a teacher I learned patience and communication, but as a police officer I developed courage, leadership, and resilience. Even today, in uniform, I still see myself as an educator at heart.”

Inspector Rehvathi’s career has taken her through several important roles within the police force. She served as a Narcotics Criminal Investigation Officer at IPD Kuantan, Pahang from 2018 to 2021. She later joined the Special Branch at IPD Iskandar Puteri in Johor from 2021 to 2025. Today, she serves as the Head of General Policing and Community Policing at IPD Seberang Perai Tengah, Penang.

Looking back at her school days, she admits she never imagined herself wearing the police uniform.

“During my school days at SJK(T) Kuala Kubu Bharu, my ambition was to become a teacher. But I was always active, responsible, and disciplined. Looking back now, I realise those small traits were already preparing me for leadership and service.”

Her academic background in education and technology has also helped her adapt to modern policing.

“Education taught me how to communicate effectively, especially with students and the community. Technology knowledge helps me adapt to modern policing, including ICT matters and understanding digital trends. Knowledge strengthens authority.”

But the journey was not without challenges.

“One of the biggest challenges was proving that capability is not determined by gender. Policing is often seen as physically and mentally demanding, and sometimes women are underestimated. Instead of reacting emotionally, I focused on discipline, consistency, and performance. Over time, results speak louder than words.”

For her, the key to progress is excellence.

“The key is not to compete emotionally but to compete through excellence. When women support each other and continue breaking stereotypes, we create space for future generations.”

She also recalls moments of doubt during difficult phases in her career.

“There were moments of self-doubt, but I reminded myself why I started – to serve, to protect, and to grow. Faith, family support, and inner strength helped me stay focused. Every obstacle became a lesson.”

As someone who began her journey in a Tamil school, Inspector Rehvathi has a message for young girls studying in similar backgrounds.

“Never doubt your dreams. Where you study does not decide how far you can go. Be proud of your roots, work hard, and believe in yourself. With confidence and determination, you can achieve anything you set your heart on.”

From the proud moment of receiving the Best Academic Trainee award at Pulapol in Batch 1/2017 to now serving alongside with her sister at IPD Seberang Perai Tengah, Penang. The best part? 

Seeing the pride in my parents' eyes when I presented it to them. What’s a moment that made your family proud?

Indeed, their journey has been nothing short of miraculous.

Standing beside her in uniform is her sister, Inspector Komathi Krishnan, whose own journey in the police force has been equally remarkable.

After completing her training, Inspector Komathi began her service in the Crime Investigation Division at IPD Seberang Perai Selatan from 2012 to 2018. She later served at the Local Forensic Identification Centre at IPD Seberang Perai Tengah from 2018 to 2023. Currently, she is serving as an Investigating Officer in the Commercial Crime Investigation Division at IPD Seberang Perai Tengah, Penang.

Her career has exposed her to both criminal and financial investigations, each bringing different responsibilities.

“In criminal investigations, the pressure is high because cases involve victims who are emotionally affected. In commercial crime, cases are complex and require detailed documentation and strong analytical skills,” she explained.

Balancing the demands of police work as a woman can be challenging, especially with long hours and field duties.

“But discipline and passion keep me going,” she said.

For Inspector Komathi, the greatest satisfaction in her work comes from helping others.

“The greatest fulfillment comes when I know my work has helped someone, whether it is solving a case, assisting a victim, or bringing justice to a family.”

Her hope is to leave behind a legacy built on integrity and compassion.

“I want to be remembered as an officer who served with honesty and fairness. I hope my service inspires trust in the police force and encourages young women to believe that they too can serve the nation.”

The sisters also acknowledge the powerful role their parents played in shaping their journey.

“Our father worked hard and always believed in discipline and service. Seeing his sacrifices inspired us. Today we are proud that our father’s dream has become a reality.”

For their family, the moment holds deep meaning.

Their father once worked at the Police Training College in Kuala Kubu Bharu. Today, both his daughters serve as police officers, fulfilling a dream he once held close to his heart.

Their story is not just about two women in uniform. It is about perseverance, family support, and the courage to rise above expectations.

This International Women’s Day, the journey of Rehvathi and Komathi Krishnan stands as a powerful reminder that strong women do not simply follow path, they create them. 

“If our journey inspires even one young girl to believe in herself, it will mean everything.”

Thank you for being an inspiration Insp. Rehvathi and Insp. Komathi!