Malbatt peacekeepers mark Malaysia Day far from home in southern Lebanon

Malaysian peacekeepers in southern Lebanon celebrate Malaysia Day with a heightened sense of duty and appreciation for their country's values. Colonel Mohd Rizal Mohd Ali, commander of the Malbatt 850-13 contingent, explained that this year's celebration marked the final year of Malaysia's nearly two-decade presence in the region under the United Nations flag. The battalion has been serving in Lebanon since November 2025 and will return to Malaysia in January 2027.

Ali emphasized that serving in an active conflict zone has deepened the Malaysian soldiers' pride in their homeland's peace and unity. He stressed that Malaysia's diversity and multicultural character, along with the principle of tolerance, have been crucial in maintaining peace in the region. The responsibility of representing Malaysia overseas extends beyond displaying the national flag; every soldier must uphold the standards and values of the armed forces.

Despite challenges such as heightened security tensions and being away from their families, the contingent has maintained vigilance and recreated Malaysian traditions at their camp to alleviate homesickness. Ali highlighted the positive legacy of goodwill demonstrated by previous contingents with the local community, which has been instrumental in the current battalion's mission.