KUALA LUMPUR: The term "pahlawan", meaning warrior or hero, holds profound significance in Malaysia.
It represents honour, sacrifice and valour, capturing the essence of those who have served the nation with unwavering dedication.
From the intense Bakara Market operation in Somalia in 1993 to the challenging Lahad Datu incursion in 2013, Malaysia's military history is marked by unparalleled bravery and commitment.
BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD
"Being a pahlawan extends beyond the battlefield," said former armed forces chief General (Rtd) Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor, reflecting on the true meaning of being a hero.
"When you embody devotion, sacrifice, and struggle, you find the true essence of heroism."
With over 43 years of military service, Raja Affandi emphasised the importance of educational initiatives in fostering pride and respect for those who have contributed significantly to the nation.
"Cultivating patriotism and the warrior ethos should start at a young age," he explained in an interview on the New Straits Times' Beyond the Headlines.
While public events like Hari Pahlawan, or Warriors Day, serve a purpose, he believes they are not enough on their own.
"Raising awareness requires more than just showcasing the army's work. Military personnel should visit schools to discuss the true meaning of sacrifice and the concept of giving up something for a greater cause," he added.
A TEST BED FOR MILITARY CAPABILITIES
Over the past 90 years, Malaysia's military has evolved from its early stages into a sophisticated and progressive force.
This growth is evident in the significant milestones and transformative operations that have refined military strategies.
A notable moment in this evolution was the Lahad Datu incursion, which General (Rtd) Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin, who was also the former armed forces chief and Raja Affandi's predecessor, described as a critical test bed for Malaysia's military capabilities.
"Lahad Datu provided a unique opportunity to integrate the army, navy and air force in a real operation, not just an exercise," he said.
The operation, known as Ops Daulat, enabled the practical application of joint operational plans and led to significant improvements, including the establishment of dedicated divisions in Sabah and Sarawak.
"This has greatly enhanced the nation's readiness and defensive capabilities," he added.
The downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, meanwhile, tested Malaysia's military diplomacy.
The incident involved multiple stakeholders, including militia groups, the airline, and passengers from various nations, as well as Ukraine and Russia.
Zulkifeli said that navigating such a sensitive situation required solid facts, reliable information, and effective collaboration.
"Our military diplomacy has always been robust, but I would love for one day to see it being integrated as a subset of national diplomacy, and not existing in silo," he noted.
THE WARRIOR ETHOS
Reflecting on his own military service, which spanned over four decades, Zulkifeli stressed the importance of sustaining the warrior ethos.
"The commemoration should be more than an annual parade; it must be a continuous effort supported by those concerned," he said.
He added that instilling a warrior ethos involves rigorous training and is built throughout one's career.
"My years of service are invaluable, and I am confident that our dedicated troops understand the importance of upholding the ideals in both defence and peacekeeping."