SUNGAI PETANI: A bittersweet mood filled the Kuala Muda police headquarters today as Goran, a police detection dog who had served with distinction for six years, officially retired, leaving his handler heavy-hearted at their parting.
Corporal M. Shivabalan of the district’s K9 Unit said the eight-year-old German Shepherd had appeared gloomier in recent days, as though sensing the farewell.
Brought in from the Czech Republic in 2019, Goran forged a close bond with Shivabalan, who described him not merely as a working dog, but as a trusted partner in countless operations.
Despite suffering from hip problems, Goran remained loyal and effective until the end of his service.
“Recently, whenever he looked at me, he seemed sad. From day one with him, we created unforgettable memories together. He’s not just a dog, he’s my partner, willing to go through anything with me.
“Among his greatest achievements was assisting police in Baling last year by locating clothing linked to a murder suspect, which eventually led to an arrest. He only needed a single command – that’s how good he is,” Shivabalan said when met.
The retirement was marked at the police’s K9 Adoption Programme here, witnessed by Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) D6 principal assistant director, Senior Assistant Commissioner Zuraimi Zam Zam.
Goran made history as the first retired K9 in Malaysia to be formally adopted as a pet. He has been entrusted to Inspector Lee Sheng Wey, 35, of the Perak police contingent’s D9 unit.
Shivabalan, 38, admitted that work commitments prevented him from keeping Goran, but promised to visit him in Ipoh.
“Although I am sad, I accept it. I just want him to be cared for with love,” he said.
Lee pledged to provide Goran with a loving family life.
“I want Goran to live like any other dog, free to roam, to go for walks, not confined. My home is spacious and I already have other dogs. He will be treated as family,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zuraimi said the adoption initiative, approved by the Home Ministry on July 16, marked a first since the K9 Unit was established in 1968.
He added that retired police dogs would undergo strict screening, with priority given to handlers before being offered to other police personnel and eventually the public.
“Throughout his six years of service, Goran contributed greatly to the police and the community. Although parting is difficult, we believe he will now enjoy a new chapter of life – from a detection dog to a beloved pet,” he said.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
