CARCOSA IMPRESSES GERALD TEMPLER
He visits building where his grandfather had lived
CARCOSA Seri Negara welcomed the grandson of former British high commissioner Sir Gerald Templer yesterday. Named after his grandfather, Gerald Templer paid a visit to the historical building with his girlfriend, Victoria Narancio, to have a glimpse of the house his grandfather used to live in.
“This is my second visit to Malaysia, but my first to Carcosa Seri Negara. It has been the most amazing experience,” the 32year-old London-based management consultant said.
Sir Gerald died seven years before his grandson was born.
Gerald said visiting Carcosa helped him know more about the life of his grandfather, who was a senior British army officer.
“I’m glad to see that the building is well maintained as it’s important and meaningful. It has a sense of space where history took place. It’s a testament to the history of a multicultural nation — a beacon of peace.”
He said his grandfather would have been pleased with the refurbishment planned for the building, as peace, heritage and culture had been of importance to him.
He said Carcosa would be a great legacy to leave for Malaysian youth.
“Malaysia holds a special place in my family’s hearts. Even my parents celebrated their honeymoon here. I love everything about it and I want my girlfriend to experience the wonders of the country.”
Present was Asian Heritage Museum chief executive officer K.K. Tan.
“If we lose our heritage, we will lose our soul. We must preserve the building at any cost. I’m pleased to give Templer a tour of his family’s legacy and contribution to the development of Malaysia.”
Sir Gerald was a British military commander who served in World War One and Two.
He was known for breaking the movement of the communist rebellion in Malaya between 1952 and 1954, by winning the hearts and minds of residents.