Malaya veterans to be honoured

Apr 30 2008 By John Rowbotham

SOLDIERS who served in Malaya are to be honoured ... more than 40 years after the end of the conflict.

They will be presented with medals at ceremonies to be held in Lanarkshire next week.

Up to 300 veterans from across Central Scotland are expected to receive the decoration at Motherwell Civic Centre on May 8.

The National Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Association have for many years been campaigning to get formal recognition for the British ex-servicemen and women who, between August 1959 and August 1966 fought in Malaya.

They helped the country — that became Malaysia — attain and then preserve their independence.

Three years ago, the Malaysian government struck the Pingat Jasa Malaysia medal to honour the sacrifice made by British troops.

A year later, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office agreed that the medal be awarded to those eligible.

Two presentations are taking place in Scotland: Perth on May 7 and Motherwell a day later.

It is estimated that up to 1200 Scottish veterans qualify for the decoration.

Presentations will be made by representatives of the Malaysian Ministry of Defence. Those who qualify will be contacted by the NMBVA and told when and where they can receive their medal.

Presentations at Motherwell will take place during two sessions on May 8, with 150 ex-services personnel expected to attend each session.

Bill Valentine, chairman of the Lanarkshire branch of the Royal Marines Association, said about six of their members were eligible for the medal.

“They are delighted to receive recognition,” he added.

“It has taken a long number of years and a lot of effort on behalf of the NMBVA.”

The NMBVA United Kingdom representative is Mike Warren, call 01253 318239.