MELAKA, June 18- The Melaka state government will continue to provide an annual grant of RM100,000 to the state branch of the Malaysian Ex-Servicemen’s Association (PBTM) as a sign of appreciation for the sacrifices made by former military personnel who had served to defend the country.
Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Idris Haron (photo) said the contribution also aimed to fund various programmes which will be organised by the association and help ease the burden of its 10,420 registered members.
“The state government always appreciates the contributions and sacrifices of military personnel who served to defend the country’s independence and security from the threats of the enemies. Some died while others lost limbs in defending the nation’s sovereignty,” he told reporters after awarding the Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) medal to 152 ex-soldiers and handing over contributions for the Warriors Day Appeal Fund 2012 here today.
Also present were Malaysian Armed Forces Veteran Affairs Department director-general Maj Gen Datuk Zulkiflee Mazlan and Melaka PBTM president Datuk Mohd Fazil Shafie.
– BERNAMA
