By Fitri Hazim Hazam and Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Aug 31 — The late war hero Lt Adnan Saidi from the premier army unit Royal Malay Regiment was posthumously accorded the Tokoh Kemerdekaan Selangor during the state-level National Day celebration here last night.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari took the honour of presenting the award, along with a RM10,000 cash and trophy, to Mohd Asrul Halim Ahmad, who is the fourth generation heir of the legendary warrior.
Asrul, 39, who is now working with the Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS), said he was thankful and moved by the recognition given by the state government.
“In his lifetime, my great grandfather always emphasised the principle of ‘biar putih tulang, jangan putih mata‘ (better to die fighting than to regret not trying) when facing any challenges in life.
“His courage in fighting the Japanese army until the last drop of his blood will be remembered forever,” he said when met after yesterday’s celebration at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam.
Asrul said he was asked to represent his family in collecting the award as his face bears the closest resemblance to Lt Adnan.
He also expressed hope that the recognition given to his great grandfather would serve as an encouragement to his family and the general public to continue defending the peace and freedom enjoyed by the country today.
“I hope the younger generation will be able to appreciate the story of Lt Adnan’s struggles and sacrifices, because I believe that the challenges in defending the country’s independence is harder than to achieve it.
“Now, it is the responsibility of this current generation to continue working together and uniting in ensuring the country’s peace is maintained, Don’t put to waste the struggles of my great grandfather,” he said.
