Rightful honour for all who sacrificed

A young Mukhtiar (standing fourth from left) with his platoon during the first Malayan Emergency. (Inset) Despite his contributions to the nation, Mukhtiar was denied a pension and recognition for his service.

THOUSANDS of Malaysians have served in one way or another to safeguard the country’s security, especially during the communist insurgency.

Over 500 soldiers and 1,300 police personnel were killed during the first Malayan Emergency (1948-1960) and a further 155 security forces personnel died during the second insurgency from 1968 to 1989.