He was entrusted with US$10mil in war-torn Bosnia

Malaysia's pioneering peacekeeping mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1993 required the Malaysian Battalion I, or Malbatt I, to safeguard a substantial amount of cash, amounting to as much as US$10 million. Retired Lieutenant-Colonel Othman Mohamad, who served as a major during this mission, recounted the extreme measures he took to keep the money secure.

He carried the bag containing the cash with him at all times, even during meals, sleep, and bathroom breaks, with only two armed escorts aware of its existence. The cash was essential for covering expenses such as salaries, fuel, food, and equipment in the conflict zone, where conventional banking facilities were unavailable. Other veterans, like Azme Dollah and retired Captain Azme Dollah, described the harsh winter conditions, constant danger from gunfire and explosions, and the difficult logistics of transporting supplies through snow-covered terrain.

The battalion faced numerous challenges, including improvised resource management and improvisation in response to budget constraints. Despite the hardships, the soldiers forged strong bonds, and the local communities appreciated the warmth and hospitality provided by the Malaysian peacekeepers.