KUCHING: No one comprehends our country’s soldiers’ loss of their comrades, despite their apparent enthusiasm in protecting the nation.
Since the days of colonialism and communism to the present, the country’s defence line has often faced threats that can take away the security and peace of the country.
Their missions were made invisible from the eyes of the people. It is a duty and responsibility that has been carried out since their first day as the armed forces.
Thus, to commemorate the contributions and sacrifices of the nation’s fallen heroes in protecting and defending the country, the Warriors’ Day is observed annually on July 31.
This year, the Warriors’ Day celebration returned after a two-year hiatus. It was celebrated at the Heroes’ Monument park here yesterday (July 31). The event was simultaneously celebrated in other parts of Sarawak.
The New Sarawak Tribune spoke to 80-year-old sergeant Bahoa Anggeh who served in the military from 1964 until 1986.
He shared a bloodshed event that claimed the lives of his comrades during an ambush that happened around 1970.
“An ambush by the communists at Sungai Katibas had killed many of our troops. At that time, there were only two survivors, namely an officer and a sergeant.
“Our team came after the incident. At that time, I saw many of our comrades getting killed. Some were sinking in the water.
“The communists at that time were in five groups. We succeeded in killing one of their members,” he said.
He also recalled his experience of not eating for a week because they ran out of food supply.
At that time, the communists were all over the forests in the country. The air force team was also unable to provide assistance due to bad weather.
His team of 15 members finally received help after the seventh day.
Other veterans who attended the event yesterday which was also called Poppy day shared their view and messages they would love to convey to the people especially the younger generations.
Former Warrant Officer of the Navy Sempanriyau Ajok said the members of the public should understand and respect the unsung heroes. Without armed forces, he said the country won’t be able to achieve such peace and tranquillity.
Meanwhile, 72-year-old former Malaysian army Bahing Maid shared many of his experiences being involved in war zones.
At the end of his talk, he said the young generation must learn and know what had happened in the past before there was peace in the country so that they can maintain independence until the end of time.
Ex ranger and intelligence Lt Col (rtd) Fabian Wong on the other hand said the members of the public must know about the Warriors’ Day in honour of the veterans as well as the sacrifices of the previous armed forces.
The tradition of the celebration must be practised and supported by the government and the people, he said.
“We have fought for the country; we are willing to sacrifice anything for the sake of the country. So it is hoped that Malaysians will acknowledge this.
“Without the sacrifice of previous heroes, there would be no peace, development and harmony like now. And everyone will be miserable. They need to keep this annual event,” he said.
Former Commanding Officer of 22nd Commando Regiment Lt Col (rtd) Linus Lunsong Janti said many Sarawakians do not know about the commandos or Elite Forces of Malaysia.
He said it is hoped that the people are made aware of the sacrifices of the country’s elite forces.
