Come to us if you need help, veterans told

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Zaki (seated centre) taking a group photo with his senior officers and their privileged guests yesterday. — Photos by Chimon Upon

Zaki (seated centre) taking a group photo with his senior officers and their privileged guests yesterday. — Photos by Chimon Upon

SAMARAHAN: Ex-servicemen should not be shy to seek assistance from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) when they are really in need.

East Field commander Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Zaki Mokhtar said they must always remember that someone still cared for them and was ready to help whenever possible.

He said what they needed to know was that even though they were no longer in the service they were still considered part of the MAF family that they could turn to when in need.

“Yes, we do have Veteran Affairs Department (JHEV) to look after the welfare of the ex-servicemen and their families but for anything beyond the means of the department, veterans can always come to us.

“Approach the division or brigade commanders and they are willing to help wherever and whenever possible because we still care about our former comrades,” he assured.

He stated this during a special reception for army veterans and servicemen from Kuching and Samarahan divisions injured during operations and exercises at Kem Muara Tuang near here yesterday.

The occasion was also attended by First Malaysian Infantry Division commander Major General Datuk Stephen Mundaw and several senior officials from various army organisations throughout the state.

At the occasion which was held in conjunction with this year’s MAF anniversary that fell on Sept 16, Zaki presented monetary contribution of RM500 each and hampers to 31 veterans and four serving personnel who were injured during operations or exercises.

“This is an annual event that we will do every time we mark our anniversary. Today (yesterday) we are having it here for recipients from Kuching and Samarahan.

“After this we will also hold similar receptions in other divisions in the state, including Sibu, Miri and Kapit for our injured former comrades there,” he said.