KUALA LUMPUR: The defence ecosystem is not limited to asset readiness and producing the best 'warriors' but also the ability of all quarters to ensure the well-being of defence personnel and veterans, Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.
In his speech at the 'Tabung Pahlawan 2024/2025' Charity Dinner, the Defence Minister said active involvement of the community, especially corporate companies, in the collection activities of the campaign conveys several important messages.
"It reflects how we, as a society, always appreciate and remember the sacrifices of the nation's warriors and their families in maintaining the sovereignty of the country.
"The contributions and sacrifices of veterans, warriors, and their entire families are a form of devotion and love for the country that cannot be matched by any reward or compensation," he said.
Present were the Prime Minister's wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, who is also the Tabung Pahlawan patron; Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, Army chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan, Navy chief Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnin and Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Affairs Department director-general Major General Datuk Semaon Marjuki.
Khaled said to date, Tabung Pahlawan have assisted as many as 48,000 veterans, particularly in terms of welfare and medical support such as cost of living aid, dialysis facilities, heart equipment, provision of prosthetic limbs or body parts, disaster relief aid, housing initiatives, funeral management assistance, and many others.
He said contributions from the fund have been effectively utilised to help alleviate their burdens and pressures.
Khaled also said the programme also serves as a reminder for all to continue raising awareness among the wider community.
"This is so that all parties strive to be the best citizens. Citizens who place the peace, sovereignty, and well-being of the homeland at the highest level, no matter where we are or in which field we work."
Khaled also calls for everyone to reject extreme practices and ideologies that harm the country.
"Let us all play our roles as responsible citizens with a sense of love for the country.
"Reject all extreme practices and ideologies that divide and harm the country, as they ultimately conflict with our values and beliefs in a nation that is pluralistic and celebrates diversity which is in line with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani," he said.
Inspired by Britain's "Poppy Day", the Tabung Pahlawan (earlier known as Rayuan Hari Pahlawan) campaign was founded in 1950 by the Veterans Association of the Malaysian Armed Forces.
This year, JHEV aims to collect RM3 million for the welfare of the veterans.