69 Commando veteran recalls Op Subuh to thwart Al-Maunah, calls for unity
IPOH: The peace and sovereignty enjoyed by Malaysia today are thanks to the invaluable struggles and sacrifices of the nation’s soldiers, who have always stood firm in defending the country.
On July 2, 2000, the tragic incident at Bukit Jenalik in Kuala Kangsar unfolded as militants from the group Al-Maunah infiltrated the Territorial Army Regiment Camp in Gerik and took refuge at Bukit Jenalik. Their intention was to overthrow the government. In response, a special operation known as Op Subuh was launched, involving 69 Commando member Sgt Maj Zol aini Sabar.
Zol aini, part of the 20 members deployed in the operation, emphasized that defending the nation's sovereignty demands unity and appreciation for sacrifice. The operation's challenges included navigating through rubber plantations, dense undergrowth, and the threat posed by skilled former security personnel within the group. Two security personnel lost their lives during the operation - Detective Corporal R. Sanghadevan from the police Special Branch and Malaysian armed Forces Grup Gerak Khas commando Trooper Mathew Medan.
Zol aini stressed that true strength lies not only in weapons but also in wisdom, tolerance, and prioritizing human lives and peace. In the context of Malaysia's formation and unity, Malaysians from all walks of life must stand together to defend the nation's sovereignty against threats, both external and internal. Malaysia's stability was built on sacrifice and harmony, and it is crucial that its younger generation understands the importance of unity for the nation's future.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.