Jubilee celebration honours nation’s security forces and veterans

Feb 28, 2025

CHERAS: The Church of St Francis of Assisi hosted the Jubilee of Armed Forces, Police & Security Personnel and Veterans on February 15. This six-hour event was not only a celebration but a reminder of the many ways our armed forces protect our lives, nation, and freedom.

The gathering brought together representatives from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Veterans, SMART, Bomba, the Police, and parish security, each playing an integral role in the day’s proceedings. Families of security personnel were also present, joining in the recognition of their loved ones’ dedication to safeguarding the nation. Their positive response reflected the strong sense of unity and pride within these groups, as well as the supportive foundation that empowers these men and women to carry out their vital duties.

One highlight was a demonstration of the specialised work performed by the Bomba and SMART teams during natural disasters. The display highlighted the preparedness and dedication of these emergency responders, who are always ready to assist in times of crisis, such as floods and fires. It served as a powerful reminder of how the security forces, often working behind the scenes, step forward to support and protect our communities in times of need.

This celebration brought together parishioners from nearby churches reinforcing the sense of unity and shared purpose among the faithful. It also highlighted the collective desire to honour and acknowledge the immense responsibility of our security forces.

As part of the event, a meaningful ‘Order of Gifts’ presentation took place, honouring various key organisations for their longstanding contributions to the nation’s security from the parish. The recipients included the Safety and Security Volunteers (established in 2020); the Royal Malaysian Air Force (1958); the Royal Malaysian Navy (1934); the Royal Malaysian Army (1933); the Malaysian ATM Veteran Association (1922), and the Police Di Raja Malaysia (1807), each recognised for their dedication and service.

A special talk was delivered by Inspector Tereance Gabrill, Senior Investigating Officer from the Commercial Crime Investigation Division at IPPD Kajang, Selangor. He addressed the issue of financial scams, sharing valuable insights and encouraging the audience to share their own experiences. This segment emphasised the importance of awareness and vigilance in today’s world, helping to educate and empower the community against such threats.

The day not only served as a reflection on the past but also set a strong foundation for future recognition and awareness of the sacrifices made by our armed forces. It was a moment of gratitude, education, and community — an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the invaluable role that these brave men and women play in keeping our nation safe.

Major (R) Joseph Savirimuthu, one of the key figures in the event, emphasised the importance of educating young parishioners about the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, especially in the face of both internal and external threats to the country. His message underscored the necessity for the younger generation to appreciate the commitment of those who serve, ensuring that their contributions are never forgotten. --Priangka Elizabeth