PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on the current generation to cherish the nation's freedom, peace, and prosperity by remembering the sacrifices made by members of the security forces in defending the country.
He also commended the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) for presenting the pantomime "Darah Pahlawan Ulu Legong" (The Blood of the Ulu Legong Warriors) during the 2026 National Warriors' Day Parade at Dataran Pahlawan Negara on Friday (July 31).
"It was a truly compelling, powerful, and heart-wrenching performance. We were deeply moved because it was not merely a drama.
"We must remember and honour the sacrifices of these heroes. The current generation must never forget that this country enjoys freedom, independence, peace, and prosperity because of the service and sacrifices of our defence forces," he told reporters after the ceremony, which was also attended by his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
Also present were Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Chief of Defence Force General Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman, and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
The pantomime recreated the sacrifice of seven soldiers who were killed in an ambush by communist terrorists during an operation in Ulu Legong, Baling, Kedah, on Oct 29, 1981.
Anwar said the performance served as a powerful reminder to young Malaysians that the nation's independence and security were secured through the courage and sacrifices of its armed forces.
"They did not merely fight, they made the ultimate sacrifice.
"That is why I extend my appreciation to the Chief of Defence Force for showcasing this and reminding the current generation of the true meaning of independence...and that independence comes at the price of sacrifice," he said.
Earlier, the Prime Minister also took the opportunity to meet and express his appreciation to Private Md Said Adam, one of the survivors of the Ulu Legong ambush, Lt. Col. Hamzah Othman, the commanding officer of the 22nd Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment (22 RAMD) during the incident, and the next of kin of the personnel involved, all of whom attended the poignant ceremony.
Held under the theme "Mengenang Jasa, Mengukuh Pertahanan” (Honouring Service, Strengthening Defence), this year's National Warriors' Day Parade, organised by the Malaysian Army, paid tribute to members of the nation's security forces who served during the Emergency and Confrontation eras, while underscoring that the country's peace and stability were achieved through immeasurable sacrifice. - Bernama
