By the Selangor Journal Team
SHAH ALAM, Sept 7 — Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari has called on all citizens to appreciate the sacrifices of past national fighters and truly understand the history behind the country’s independence as they celebrate National Day and Malaysia Day.
He said independence could not have been achieved had it not been for the ‘sweat, tears and sacrifices’ of the war heroes.
This includes the late Lt Adnan Saidi, who fought the Japanese to the death in the famous Battle of Pasir Panjang at Singapore, during the Second World War, as part of the premier Army unit, the 1st Malaya Infantry Brigade.
In a post on his social media accounts today, Amirudin paid special tribute to the war hero, whom he described as a courageous warrior.
“Lt Adnan was a Selangor native born in Kampung Sungai Ramal. He led the Royal Malay Regiment in defending Malaya from being captured by the Japanese during the Second World War,” he said.
Amirudin added that Lt Adnan was accorded the honour in recognition of his service to the nation.
“The courage and heroism shown by Lt Adnan, who went above and beyond to fight off the Japanese army until the last drop of his blood, will forever be remembered,” he said.
In recognition of his sacrifices, the state government had, during the state-level National Day celebration on August 30, posthumously awarded Lt Adnan the Tokoh Kemerdekaan Selangor.
Mohd Asrul Halim Ahmad, who is the fourth-generation heir of the legendary fighter, was present to receive the award, together with RM10,000 cash and a trophy.
He expressed his gratitude, and was moved by the the state government’s recognition.
“In his lifetime, my great-grandfather always emphasised the principle of ‘biar putih tulang, jangan putih mata‘ (better to die on one’s feet than live on one’s knees) when facing any challenges in life,” Mohd Asrul said when met after the event.
He also hopes the recognition given to Lt Adnan would serve as an encouragement to his family and the general public in continuing to defend the peace and freedom enjoyed by Malaysia today.
“Now, it is the responsibility of this current generation to continue working together and uniting in ensuring the country’s peace is maintained. We should not waste the struggles of my great-grandfather,” he said.
