The Gurkhas - Nepali soldiers renowned for their bravery and combat skills - first came to Malaysia some 57 years ago. They first stepped on Malayan soil in 1948.

The British brought them into the country as part of the military regiment of their empire.

The Gurkhas had its own special unit called the "Gurkha Brigade" and were assisting their colonial master in maintaining order during the Malayan emergency.

Although fairly small in built, the Gurkhas are known for their bravery, discipline, combat skills and loyalty.

Together with the local military, the Gurkha Brigade also fought the communists in the jungles of Malaya.

2,000 in the country

This historical link is one reason why the senior generations in Malaysia still remember them, and for their renowned military skills in particular.

However, the younger generations do not have the same view as today the Gurkhas are seen all over Kuala Lumpur and other cities and towns manning the security at shopping complexes, commercial buildings and private offices.

The influx of Nepal security guards started about a year ago and to date, there are about 2,000 Nepalese employed as security guards throughout the country. This number is expected to increase due to the high demand for them.

Owners of shopping complexes, business premises, private offices and government agencies are said to favour the Gurkhas over local security guards.