SIBU: What do we owe our veterans for having served the country and laid down their lives to keep it safe so that the rest of us can live in peace and freedom?
What do we owe those among them who have died, been injured and/or disabled?
What about the families who have lost their sons, brothers, fathers, uncles, aunties, etc. in the service of the country?
If you asked Bintulu Member of Parliament (who is also Dudong assemblyman) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, he would tell you without hesitation that if not for the struggles of our military personnel (many of whom have become veterans), the current generation of Malaysians might not be able to enjoy harmony, peace and stability.
“Therefore, we hope that our veterans can continue to make contributions to the security of the country.
“Their patriotism is still strong in them, so I hope they would continue to maintain the spirit for the future of the country,” said the PDP president at a ceremony for the swearing-in of new committee members of the Malaysian Military Veterans Association Sarawak (PVTMS).
He urged all Malaysians to recognise and appreciate the sacrifices of the veterans.
“The serving military personnel are the country’s first line of defence while the veterans are right behind them.
“The veterans are very important as they have the experience and expertise in protecting country from enemy threats, thereby ensuring its peace and sovereignty.
“Therefore, the government greatly appreciates the veterans by creating various initiatives and assistance for them,” he said.
Tiong’s text of speech was read out by Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Bawang Assan Youth chief, Councillor Joshua Ting Fu Ying, at the ceremony on Saturday.
On the PVTMS, Tiong hoped that the new committee would be able to work as a team to help ensure that the plans and aspirations of the current government could be implemented smoothly and effectively.
He also advised the association to continue looking after the welfare of their members and to increase their number as there is strength in numbers.
Tiong then pointed out that the association had many ex-servicemen who had valuable combat knowledge to share with those still in service.
“The sole purpose of the military is protecting the country. It is because of them that the rest of us do not have to worry about our safety and security.
“Congratulations to the elected committee members. Hereby, I am pleased to announce that RM10,000 has been granted to the association.
“On a personal level, I pray for the well-being of the association and hopes it will inspire more young people and soldiers to be more patriotic,” said Tiong, who is also the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to China.
PVTMS president Francis Yeo and his deputy Idres Adam were among those present.
