Veterans never forgotten — Assemblyman

KAPIT: Those who fought for the country’s sovereignty are never forgotten.

Those in uniform - armed forces and police - during their active years sacrificed their lives to fight for Sarawak’s and Malaysia’s sovereignty. They fought for our independence against Indonesian intrusion, Brunei rebellion, communist insurgency, etc. Jefferson Jamit Unyat, Bukit Goram assemblyman

In fact, the country has put aside a special day – the Warrior’s Day – every year to remember and pay tribute to these unsung heroes who put their lives on the line to protect the country, said Bukit Goram assemblyman Jefferson Jamit Unyat.

“Those in uniform - armed forces and police - during their active years sacrificed their lives to fight for Sarawak’s and Malaysia’s sovereignty. They fought for our independence against Indonesian intrusion, Brunei rebellion, communist insurgency, etc,” he said when officiating at a Warrior’s Day event at the Methodist Cemetery, Jalan Selirik here yesterday.

He reminded the younger generation to know the struggle and crucial role played by the armed forces to defend the nation’s sovereignty.

“Also, the role played by our veteran politicians like the late Apai Tun Datuk Patinggi Jugah Barieng and all the Iban penghulu who met at Fort Sylvia Kapit to discuss the formation of Malaysia in 1962, in which they came up with resolutions that were taken into consideration when Malaysia was formed,” the assemblyman added.

Jamit also said since independence, Sarawak had undergone rapid development in terms of economy, education, infrastructure and amenities.

He also reminded all Sarawakians to safeguard the prevailing peace and harmony in the state.

“There are about 39 ethnic groups in Sarawak. Therefore it is important we practise tolerance and respect one another,” he said.

Some 30 army personnel attended the event, including Major Kassim Dandi who represented the Ninth Infantry Brigade and Warrant Officer Philip Dullah from 510 Territorial Army KD Sri Rajang.

Others present were Malaysian Veterans Association Kapit branch chairman Martin Bilun and Temenggong Wilfred Billy Panyau.

The event was held at the late Tun Jugah’s tomb.

From right, Billy, Martin, Jamit, Kassim and Philip at the Warrior’s Day event.

Laying the wreath at the tomb of Tun Jugah. From left are Billy, Jamit, Kassim, Philip and Martin.