THE sacrifices of Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) veterans must be lauded and respected, as their service remains fundamental to the nation’s peace, stability and sovereignty.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this at the opening of the Malaysia Armed Forces Indian Veteran Association (Perim) Penang branch hall at Bukit Juru today, describing the ceremony as more than a symbolic event as it reflected sincere appreciation for the lifelong contributions of former servicemen, particularly those from the Indian community.
He said the presence of about 100 Perim members and veterans at the event highlighted the strong spirit of unity, loyalty and brotherhood that continued to bind veterans together long after their years of active service.
Chow said the veterans remain a vital pillar of national resilience, noting that many still demonstrate strong leadership, discipline, resilience and values of sacrifice instilled during their military service.
Referring to the earlier speech by Major Mohd Izmer Ghazali, who is the director of the Department of Veterans Affairs (JHEV), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Kedah, Perlis and Penang Branch, Chow concurred that veterans would be among the first to respond should the nation face any form of crisis, as their sense of duty to the country remain intact.
Chow said he was informed that more than 40 veteran organisations operate nationwide, with 12 of them based in Penang.
To support Perim operations and to help improve facilities at the hall, Chow announced a contribution of RM20,000, which would be disbursed in early 2026 as the current financial year has concluded.
He added that Perim would need to submit an official letter to facilitate the contribution.
Chow said the Penang government has consistently recognised and valued the sacrifices of ATM veterans who have devoted their time, energy and future to ensuring that Malaysia remains peaceful, stable and sovereign.
He stressed that veteran leaders continue to play an important role in society, particularly in fostering harmony among Malaysia’s multiracial communities.
“Veterans possess unique qualities shaped by years of discipline and training, which should serve as an example to the wider public,” he said.
Chow also expressed appreciation to the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) for its collaboration with Perim in refurbishing the hall and turning it into an operational centre for the association.
He said he hoped the facility would be fully utilised as a venue for veterans to gather, interact, plan programmes and carry out community-based activities in the area.
On employment opportunities, Chow said that although many bear the title of veteran, some are still capable of working in the private sector.
He noted that Juru and the surrounding areas are industrial zones, and engagements with factories have shown their willingness to cooperate in identifying suitable job opportunities for veterans.
Chow expressed his hopes the event would mark the beginning of closer engagement between himself and veteran affairs, particularly in Penang.
Major Mohd Izmer shared that he comes from a humble family, with personal connections to veteran service.
“I have a close understanding of the sacrifices of veterans, and supporting veterans should be upheld in a spirit of harmony, regardless of race, religion, or background,” he stressed.
Major Mohd Izmer also praised the dedication of Perim members, noting there are more than 20 associations in Kedah, nine in Perlis, and 12 in Penang, with Perim being among the most prominent.
Perim national president Major M. Shanmugam, who is retired, thanked the state for its support and lauded the spirit of unity among the members.
Among those who attended the ceremony were Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao-Leung, Perim Penang Branch chairman A. Ravantharan, and Perim Penang branch members.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat