PETALING JAYA: Even as the memories of the World Wars are now just history lessons to many, dozens still gathered to honour servicemen who died during the wars at the Remembrance Day Service on Sunday (Nov 9).
The service, held at the National Monument (Tugu Negara), saw representatives from various foreign embassies and high commissions to Malaysia, including Singapore, France, India and others, paying tribute to those who served during the World Wars.
Organised by the British High Commission to Malaysia, the event was attended by senior representatives from the armed forces as well as members of various army veteran associations.
British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma said the ceremony filled him with a mix of emotions for the brave men and women who sacrificed everything so others could live in peace.
He expressed admiration for the courage of those who fought and pride for what was achieved by the end of World War II, saying he would always feel humbled by the sacrifices made over eight decades ago.
"To this day, I still feel immense gratitude to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the peace, the safety, the security we enjoy today.
"Unfortunately, around the world, the personnel of our armed forces, our allies, friends and partners continue to put themselves at risk day in, day out, for our security, for peace and for stability.
"So let us remember them and thank all our current serving personnel as well, together with the heroes from previous wars and conflicts," he said in his speech.
Sharma said the service also reflected reconciliation and shared humanity, noting the presence of representatives from countries that had been adversaries in the past World Wars.
"I think that just shows how much we all have moved on and how we can always build new relationships with countries and with people even if we have been enemies at one point in time," he said.
He was also heartened by the strong youth turnout, with students from the International School @ ParkCity (ISP) attending and performing choir and orchestra pieces.
"I am delighted that I have been able to have my first Remembrance Service here in Malaysia. I look forward to hosting future events that honour not just the sacrifice of those involved in the fighting, but also the families and those affected by the fighting," he added.
The crowd was treated to orchestral and choir performances by ISP students throughout the service, which concluded with a moment of silence for the sacrifices of the World Wars.
Remembrance Day is typically observed on Nov 11 or the second Sunday of Nov annually in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries like Malaysia to mark the end of World War I in 1918.
The service also commemorates members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty during both World Wars.
This year’s service also marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
