Royal attendance: Sultan Nazrin inspecting the parade during the ceremony at UPSI in Tanjung Malim, Perak. — Bernama
TANJUNG MALIM: Recognising the diverse composition of the nation’s population, it is essential that the duty to defend the country from external threats is shared collectively, says Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
The Sultan of Perak said due to this, membership in the country’s armed forces is not limited to the Malays.
His Royal Highness said in 1952, the inclusion of non-Malays in the armed forces began with the formation of the first battalion of the Federation Regiment and Squadron A of the Federation Armoured Regiment.
“This was followed by the establishment of key units in signals, engineering, transport and military police, along with the opening of the Federation Military College in Port Dickson, which welcomed students from various ethnic backgrounds,” said the Perak Ruler during the 42nd Officer Commissioning Parade for Reserve Officers Training Unit (Palapes) cadets from public universities at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) here yesterday, Bernama reported.
Sultan Nazrin said members of the Palapes have officially earned their place in the Malaysian Armed Forces after successfully completing physical training, enhancing their mental acuity, building resilience and facing various challenges.
“You have experienced a transformation – physically, mentally and spiritually – emerging stronger, more resilient, more determined and more steadfast.
“You have been introduced to a culture that values discipline, upholds loyalty and practices obedience in carrying out missions.
“Every act of bravery and willingness you show is not for personal gain but to defend the nation and its people,” His Royal Highness said.
The ceremony saw the commissioning of 1,435 Palapes cadet officers from 20 public universities, including 35 officers who received the Best Officer Award, comprising 16 from the Army, 11 from the Navy and eight from the Air Force.
