The Malaysian Armed Forces Chinese Veterans Association (Macva) has called for more Chinese youths to consider a military career.
This follows a recent call by armed forces chief Nizam Jaffar for greater participation among non-Bumiputera communities.
In a statement today, Macva president Wong Ah Jit said previous Chinese generations once proudly served and defended the nation, “leaving behind a legacy of honour and sacrifice”.
“A military career is no easy path, but it builds character, instills discipline, develops leadership and most importantly, provides young people with a chance to directly participate in nation-building and take on the noble responsibility of protecting the rakyat.
“Today’s generation should carry forward this tradition and ensure the Chinese community continues to have a voice, presence and contribution within the armed forces,” he said.
Yesterday, Nizam said non-bumiputera representation in the armed forces remained low.
He said the forces should be seen as a viable career choice, offering a professional environment distinct from other fields.
“I urge all communities to consider joining the armed forces. This is where the real challenge begins, and where you will experience the true meaning of professionalism,” he said after the presentation of appointment letters to armed forces officer cadets.
Nizam said of the 509 newly commissioned officer cadets, 466 were Malays, while 14 were Indians, eight Chinese, four Bugis, and the rest from various ethnicities, including Rungus, Suluk, Sikh and other Bumiputera from Sabah and Sarawak.
“The low number (eight) is a matter of concern and reflects the need for greater Chinese representation in the national defence sector,” Wong said.
