From force to family: Goran the German Shepherd becomes PDRM’s first adopted retired K9
Malaysians can now adopt these retired four-legged heroes through the Tracker Dog Adoption programme, introduced by Bukit Aman’s CID D6 division.
NUR ADNIN MAHALIM
SHAH ALAM - They have tracked suspects through the night, uncovered hidden evidence and guarded communities with unshakable loyalty.
Now, the Royal Malaysia Police's (PDRM) hardworking K9 officers are officially hanging up their leashes and for the first time in nearly six decades, Malaysians can adopt these retired four-legged heroes.
The Tracker Dog Adoption programme, introduced by Bukit Aman’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) D6 division, this month marked a historic first since the K9 unit was formed in 1968.
According to a statement by the Kedah Police posted on its official Facebook page, this was a historic programme because in the 57 years since the K9 unit’s establishment, this is the first time retired K9 dogs have been allowed to be adopted as pets.
“The adoption process involves strict screening to ensure that only those who are truly eligible and capable of caring for the welfare and health of the retired K9s are selected.
“Priority is given to the original handler, followed by policemen and then members of the public.
Goran, the pioneer retiree
The programme’s first retiree is Goran, an eight-year-old German Shepherd from Czechoslovakia.
After six years of dedicated service, Goran was officially handed over to Inspector Lee Sheng Wey of the Perak CID headquarters during a ceremony at the Kuala Muda district police K9 section.
The ceremony was witnessed by Bukit Aman CID D6 deputy director Senior Assistant Commissioner Zuraimi Zam Zam and Kuala Muda OCPD Assistant Commissioner Hanyan Ramlan.
And Goran’s resume? Pretty legendary.
These ex-detective floofs have detected evidence at 60 crime scenes, conducted 213 crime prevention patrols and even took part in 40 public order control assignments.
He also played a vital role in solving a murder case in Kampung Batu 7, Binjul Luar, Kuala Ketil in 2024.
For his loyalty and service, Goran’s original handler, Corporal M. Shivabalan was also presented with a special recognition award.
Until now, retired police dogs usually lived out their days under police care.
But with this new programme, the K9 heroes get a chance at family life outside the force.
PDRM emphasised that adoption is not a free-for-all. Applicants will face a strict screening process to ensure these dogs receive the care they deserve.
Priority goes first to their original handlers, then other PDRM personnel and finally, members of the public.
The initiative is not just about giving retired dogs a good home. It also ties into PDRM’s goal of bringing in 25 new tracker dogs every two years, ensuring the unit stays strong nationwide.
For Malaysians, that means more opportunities in the future to bring these furry veterans into their homes provided they aced the vetting process.
Because after years of service, these dogs deserve more than a quiet kennel life. They deserve families, love and all the treats they can handle.
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