A very rare account of both combat and the internal battles with systemic prejudice. The book is celebrated for its frank and bold approach, exposing uncomfortable truths about service, race, and loyalty.
An honest reckoning with institutional bias
Unlike typical military memoirs, Exigent Circumstances does not shy away from confronting the deep-seated prejudices Major Swami faced throughout his three decades of service. The memoir documents his journey from a young recruit to a commissioned officer, detailing his participation in key campaigns while fighting a "crueler war" from within.
A "quiet, cruel" internal war. The book reveals that Swami was not only battling external enemies but also confronting systemic bias within the military. This makes the account especially poignant and resonates beyond a simple war story.
The corrosion of prejudice. Reviewers describe the book as a "warning and reminder" of how prejudice can erode institutional integrity. It highlights the importance of trusting those you serve with, and how that trust was often betrayed by the very system he swore to protect.
A bold and powerful narrative
Major Swami's story is powerful and does not hold back. The memoir's bold, no-punches-pulled narrative style is a recurring theme in reviews.
Brutal, honest, unforgettable.
Reviews cite the book's narrative as "brutal, honest, unforgettable," indicating that Swami's willingness to expose his painful experiences makes for a compelling and raw read.
Loyal to the flag, betrayed by the fabric.
 | | Having Beers With The A Team, 2nd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group |
This powerful line, used in the book's description, captures the essence of the memoir. It highlights the conflict of a soldier's unwavering duty contrasted with a country that did not always value his service equally.
 | | Lt Col Zulkapli with his sunglasses, red T-Shirt Major Christopher Joseph an Green T-Shirt Major Stephen Mundaw |
A Malaysian story from the ground up
The memoir serves as a critique of Malaysian society, viewed through the lens of one man's military career.
 | | With DYMM Raja Perlis, after Somalia |
Beyond a single soldier. The book is seen as more than just Major Swami's story; it is described as "Malaysia's story from the ground up".
 | | The Late Captain (Dr) Jeffrey Austin Braganza treating a Somali with a gunshot wound |
A wake-up call for the nation.By detailing the racial bias he endured, Swami forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about his home country. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that "a nation still at war with itself" cannot truly prosper if it fails to equally value all who serve it.
 | | Some captured weapons from Merca |
Contact me to buy the book here and share with your friends who might be interested, it's RM65, text me via WhatsApp at +012 4084300 if you are interested in purchasing this book, postage is free!
From Online retailers in Malaysia:
Shopee: You can purchase the book from the Gerakbudaya/SIRD Malaysia official store on Shopee.
MPHOnline.com: The book is listed as available on the MPH Online website.
Kinokuniya Malaysia: You can find the book on Kinokuniya's Malaysian website, where it was in stock at their fulfillment center as of August 2025.
Gerakbudaya: The publisher's website also lists the book for sale.
Lazada: The Gerakbudaya/SIRD Malaysia official online store on Lazada also offers the book.
Physical bookstores:
MPH Bookstores:
Search results suggest availability at MPH stores, such as the TRX
store, although it's best to check with a specific branch for current
stock.
Kinokuniya:
The book is available in stock at Kinokuniya's fulfillment center for
online orders, suggesting you can also find it at their physical stores.
Contact me, the author, to buy the book here and share with your friends who might be interested, it's RM65, text me via WhatsApp at +012 4084300 if you are interested in purchasing this book, postage is free.
International buyers:
Mary Martin Booksellers:
This international bookseller lists the book, confirming it is a
paperback written in English and self-published in Perak, Malaysia. |
