Government looks after the welfare of army veterans — Jamit
KAPIT: The government recognises the role played by army veterans in nation building and protecting the sovereignty of the nation.
As such, it has established the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Department and taken various measures to look after their welfare, said Bukit Goram assemblyman Jefferson Jamit Unyat when declaring open the annual general meeting of the Kapit branch of Malaysian Army Veterans Association on Saturday.
He, therefore, encouraged all former soldiers to join the association so that they could benefit from its programmes like welfare assistance, living allowance, health care insurance and children education, among others.
“Although you have retired from active service, the government never forgets your contributions. You still play an important role in the society. Many of you were appointed as community leaders because of your vast experiences and leadership quality. In fact, veterans are the ‘ears and eyes’ of the government to maintain peace and security,” he said.
Later, he announced a government grant of RM8,000 for the association.
Meanwhile, Wilfred Billy Panyau, who was recently appointed as Temenggong for the Dayak community in Kapit, decided to step down as chairman of the Kapit branch of Malaysian Army Veterans Association after holding the post for the past 25 years.
“I served as chairman of Kapit branch since 1992, 25 years ago when it was formed. I am stepping down because as Temenggong, I have a great responsibility to look after the Dayak community. Although I’m stepping down, I’m still a member. As long as we all work together as a team, our voice will be heard. As veterans, we must always uphold high moral conduct, discipline, honesty and integrity,” said Billy.
Present were Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Department Sarawak branch director Lieutenant Colonel Dunging Serit, councillor Sulaiman Nyandang, Malaysian Army Veterans Association Kapit branch acting chairman Tuai Rumah Baja Rawing, heads of departments and about 200 veterans.