Defence Ministry proposes annual Veterans Day

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Defence Ministry is contemplating the creation of an annual Veterans Day to pay tribute to armed forces veterans. Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced the proposal, which the National Veterans Council has backed, with nationwide observance pending cabinet endorsement. The event aims to bolster public recognition of military veterans and their sacrifices, Khaled stated during the 100th National General Assembly of the Armed Forces Veterans Association.

The government remains dedicated to protecting veterans' well-being, moving away from providing sporadic aid to fostering their growth through skills enhancement, retraining, employment prospects, and entrepreneurial initiatives. Assistance will still be available for those who require it. Khaled emphasized that veterans should not be merely seen as welfare recipients but as individuals possessing substantial experience, skills, and capabilities that can continue contributing to society and the nation.

He encouraged the association to motivate more veterans to engage in reskilling programs, skills certification schemes, and job-matching initiatives, such as those offered by the Veterans Entrepreneur and Skills Training Corporation (Perhebat). The ministry is collaborating with the Human Resources Ministry to ensure veterans receive suitable training, certifications, and career opportunities.

Veterans can also support the country's Comprehensive Defence concept, known as Hanruh, by promoting defense awareness, fostering patriotism, and enhancing community resilience. The ministry is broadening opportunities for veterans through career-matching programs and economic endeavors. Through the Harga Istimewa Tentera Sejahtera (HITS) campaign at Pernama outlets in military bases, veterans can purchase goods at discounted rates of up to 30 percent.

The ministry is also determined to engage veteran-owned businesses in the defense sector, contingent on their capabilities. Khaled emphasized that veterans' welfare and needs would not be overlooked, noting that contributions to the Warriors Fund, which aids veterans and their families, have risen from RM1.3 million in 2023/2024 to RM2.19 million in 2024/2025 and RM3.35 million in 2025/2026, with 2026/2027 collections reaching RM4.35 million.

The Armed Forces Veterans Association, with 182,786 registered members under the Veterans Affairs Department, is among the country's oldest and largest veterans' organizations.