The experience and expertise of Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) veterans could be harnessed to develop tourism products based on the country’s military and maritime heritage.
Speaking at the “Ocean Heritage Night: Veterans Charity Gala” in Sibu, Sarawak, RMN Veterans Association (PVTLDM) president Komander (Rtd) Khairil Hariss Khairuddin said military tourism had economic and educational potential that could be explored through cooperation with Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
He said many countries had turned military history, decommissioned warships, maritime museums and heroic heritage into tourist attractions.
“I believe the experience and expertise of Navy veterans can be harnessed to develop tourism products based on military and maritime heritage.
“We do not merely want history to be remembered, but also to ensure that this heritage remains alive, benefits society and creates value for the country,” he said in his speech at the event organised by PVTLDM Sarawak branch, as reported by Bernama.
Khairil Hariss said the association had about 12,000 registered veterans across 16 branches nationwide, with 60% of them aged between 30 and 59 – still within their productive years.
In this regard, he hoped cooperation with the ministry would open up opportunities for veterans to continue contributing to the development of the tourism sector and preservation of maritime heritage.
Also present at the event were Tourism Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and PVTLDM Sarawak branch president Warrant Officer 1 (Rtd) Unyok Dasi.
