Veterans of the Royal Malaysian Air Force Air Traffic Control Squadron at their 2025 reunion in Kuala Lumpur with the writer (seated third from right). — Photos: JIT SINGH BRAYON SINGH
On the evening of June 28, 2025, the vibrant ambiance of Vogue – a stylish restaurant and club nestled near KL Sentral in Brickfields – came alive with laughter, nostalgia and heartfelt reunions as the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Air Traffic Control (ATC) Squadron hosted its much-anticipated annual gathering.
This year’s reunion brought together a distinguished assembly of veterans from the Air Traffic Control, Fire Section and Ground Radio divisions – all once part of a close-knit RMAF unit that played a vital role in Malaysia’s military history.
While the reunion tradition rotates through different venues each year, the 2025 location stood out for its centrality and convenience, encouraging a robust turnout and making travel arrangements smoother for attendees.
The memorable evening was made possible through the tireless efforts of Warrant Officer I Ulaganathan Singaram and Jai Krishnan Samynatha, whose months of planning and coordination culminated in an event that celebrated shared service, sacrifice and lifelong bonds.
With strong support from generous sponsors and enthusiastic veterans, the gathering became more than just a reunion – it was a heartfelt homage to a legacy of duty and resilience.
(From right) Kenny Ooi, the writer, Vesunathan Munusamy and Kumaran Kunjamboo.
The primary aim of the event was to reconnect with long-lost comrades and reflect on the shared experiences – both challenging and triumphant – that shaped the squadron through decades of service.
Stories flowed freely and among the many shared was a gripping account from a veteran who recalled a harrowing mission near the Malaysia-Thailand border. Amid a gunfire-laden rescue operation, the helicopter he was aboard took over 20 bullet holes. Despite the chaos, the pilot safely diverted, assessed the damage, and courageously completed the mission. “Experiences like these,” he noted, “are far removed from the routine of civil air traffic control.”
Adding a special honour to the event was the presence of Brigadier General (Rtd) Datuk P Thamilanty, the most senior ATC officer in attendance. His dignified presence served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, heritage, and continuity in the squadron’s legacy.
In a progressive move, the organising committee extended invitations to the spouses of veterans for the first time, with particular encouragement for female air traffic controllers to participate. Among the notable women present were Major Rasaletchumy Ratnasingam, the most senior female ATC officer, and Noraini Mahadi, both of whom represented the enduring contributions of women in the squadron’s history.
The night was made even more special with the presence of several pilots from the squadron’s operational days. One such guest, Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Munusamy Arumugam, coincidentally celebrated his birthday that evening – a personal milestone shared in the warm company of fellow veterans.
The celebration was filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and a camaraderie that transcended ranks and roles.
Also gracing the event was F/Sjn Manmohan Singh, an 82-year-old Ground Radio veteran, who was seen enjoying the evening with his former comrades. Adding to the joy was the lighter side of Warrant Officer I Danny Tan YP, once known for his strict tower discipline, now seen mingling jovially with friends, proving that time mellows even the firmest of characters.
The Fire Section, too, was well represented, with Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Syed Aswad Syed Omar and Warrant Officer I Katrivellu Samykannu sharing fond memories and service-day anecdotes, rekindling the spirit of old camaraderie among peers.
Though some veterans were unable to attend due to unavoidable circumstances, their absence was felt and their memories honoured. The event ended on a joyful and uplifting note, with rekindled friendships, shared laughter, and a collective pledge to keep the tradition alive.
As the evening drew to a close, the sense of belonging lingered. Attendees parted ways with full hearts and renewed connections, vowing to return next year – because in the RMAF ATC Squadron, service may end, but the bond endures.
