Foreign war veterans mesmerised by National Day celebration
KUALA LUMPUR: “Saya sayang Malaysia!”
In typical British accent, William Hammington, 73, a British war veteran, expressed his feelings towards Malaysia, which was regarded a “second home” for many soldiers who resided in the country in the early years of post-independence.
He had served in then Malaya as an army sergeant from 1957 until 1965.
Hammington said the event brought back memories of the first Merdeka celebrations and atmosphere.
He was also in awe of the mammoth crowd that turned up at Dataran Merdeka on Thursday for the National Day celebration. The theme, “Negaraku Sehati Sejiwa”, was reminiscent of the earlier generations’ patriotism and unity at the time the nation gained independence.
“Back then, I was one of the witnesses of the memorable moment on Aug 31, 1957, but today, I’ve got the chance to be part of this historical event as I’ve been given the opportunity to march together with my former colleagues in front of thousands of Malaysians,” said Hammington, who had joined his last operation in fighting the (communist) terrorists through the Tiger Operation in 1964.
Hammington said he was impressed with Malaysia’s rapid development as well as its various achievements, and it was also respected by other countries.
He was one of 60 veterans from Britain and New Zealand, who had served in the military in Malaya from 1940 until 1960, who took part in the parade. They arrived here on Tuesday and will be in Malaysia until Sept 12.
Former navy sergeant Garry Cousin, 75, from New Zealand, said he was mesmerised by the unique, vibrant performances.
“Malaysia has great soldiers, beautiful places and many things and for that, they should be proud of the achievements of their past and current leaders who had struggled to give the best for this country.
“If I were given another opportunity to be part of this memorable event, for sure I will grab the chance,” he said.
The country’s pre-independence era of Japanese rule and British colonialism, Malayan Emergency and historical episodes leading to the declaration of Independence were recalled in the three-hour performance during the celebration.
An ensemble made up of 11 national security and enforcement agencies personnel kept the crowd entertained as they effortlessly rendered 35 patriotic songs to accompany the march past and performances from 7am.
The National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS) is the key to their success in carrying out the performances that is expected to be recorded in the The Malaysia Book Of Records as the biggest band. Bernama