Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker commends association in ensuring welfare of veterans

SIBU (Oct 2): Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Alice Lau, commended the effort of the Malaysia Armed Forces Veterans Association Sarawak (PVTMS) in ensuring welfare of the veterans in the state is taken care of.

According to Lau, the association is not just a place for the members to share their past experiences and memories, but also provides moral and physical support for veterans who are facing various life challenges after retirement.

“The association’s effort in the fight for the rights and the welfare of the veterans is very much appreciated.

“Providing health assistance, financial support and training opportunities are important steps to ensure that the veterans can enjoy a better life after their service in the army.

“We must continue to make sure that our veterans will not be forgotten and are being given due attention from the government and the people,” she said at the PVTMS 9th annual general meeting (AGM) at Dewan Masjid Al Madinatul Husna, Sibujaya last Saturday.

Lau’s text of speech was read by her assistant Maria Jonnit.

Also present at the AGM were PVTMS president Francis Yeo, Veterans Affair Department (JHEV) Sibu officer Sergeant Mohd Firdaus Che Ain and others.

Lau, who is also member of Parliament for Lanang, said no word can describe the contributions and sacrifices of the armed forces in defending the country’s sovereignty, as they are the frontliners to ensure peace and safety of the nation during emergencies, conflicts or external threats.

“All the veterans today are the heroes who made history. Thus, your sacrifices must not be forgotten especially for the future generations,” she pointed out.

She said their contributions and sacrifices led to a peaceful Malaysia until today.

Lau also wanted all the younger generations to understand and appreciate the sacrifices of the national heroes and the veterans.

“This is important so that the spirit of patriotism and loyalty to the country will continue to rise among the future generations,” she said.

Meanwhile, Yeo was re-elected as the president for the 2024–2027 term and Ideris Adam as the deputy president.

Vice president I and vice president II are Mohd Bakri Mohd Yusoff and Kissenger Tutong respectively.

Jeffery Linggai Majin was elected as secretary while Lawan Naia was elected as the treasurer and Said Ismail was elected as information chief.

The committee members are Arifin Johari, Anthony Entili, Jamil Akel, Saifuddin Julaihi, Abu Bakar Janel, Rositi Buan, Raipole Mantok, Bali Medang and Abdullah Sepawei.