KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 (Bernama) —The government plans to establish a Veterans’ Day to recognise the service and sacrifices of Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said a proposed date for the annual observance would be submitted to the Cabinet soon for approval.
He said the initiative would provide formal recognition for veterans while strengthening public appreciation for their contributions to the country.
“It will serve as a recognition, a formal acknowledgement that we honour veterans,” he said at the opening of the 100th National General Assembly of the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) here today.
Also present were Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman, Army Chief General Tan Sri Azhan Md Othman and PVATM president Datuk Sharuddin Omar.
In a separate development, Mohamed Khaled said companies awarded major government contracts would be required to provide employment opportunities for MAF veterans to help them remain economically active after completing their service.
He said the Defence Ministry (MINDEF) would monitor the initiative to ensure veterans benefited from the job opportunities.
On Tabung Pahlawan, he said rising public contributions reflected growing appreciation for veterans’ role in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security.
Collections rose from RM1.3 million in 2023-2024 to RM2.19 million in 2024-2025 and RM3.35 million in 2025-2026.
For 2026-2027, collections have reached RM4.35 million against a target of RM5 million.
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