MUSA GIVES MEDALS TO SHOW APPRECIATION

MEDAL ....Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman pinning the Pingat Kedaulatan Negara medal on each of the 15 police officers in recognition of their services during the Ops Daulat in Lahad Datu. Accompaying him on stage are Home Ministry’s Deputy Secretary General Datuk Alwi Ibrahim (left) and Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib.

By : Oliver Majaham

ADDRESSING a gathering at Libaran Hall in Sandakan, Musa spoke of the nation’s debt of gratitude to the security forces, especially those who were killed or injured in the defence of the country.

He said it is difficult to quantify this in monetary terms but the creation of the award is a way for the country to show its appreciation to the security forces.

Musa also once again extended his condolences to the families of the fallen servicemen who died while defending the country’s sovereignty in Lahad Datu.

He said the State government contributed RM100,000 to the families of the fallen heroes as well as RM50,000 contribution for those who  were injured.

He also touched on the creation of ESSCOM and ESSZONE following the Sulu intrusion to strengthen the security of the affected areas. “We need to appreciate and not take for granted the peace and prosperity that we have and the important role the security forces play in keeping the country safe and secure,” he said.

On the subject of the forthcoming elections he reminded the people, especially those staying within the ESSZONE areas, to come out and vote during polling day and not worry about their safety, as the security forces have taken adequate measures to ensure there is no threat to the people.

PROUD....Recipients of the Pingat Kedaulatan award from left ASP Mohd Aris Jambul, Supt Suhaimi Wiro, DSP Rozita Don, ASP Jefri Othman, Insp Yaem Duam and Supt Shahruddin Taib proudly showing their medal after the ceremony

Speaking at the same function, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib said the creation of these special  awards shows that the government appreciates and recognises the contribution of the security forces in upholding the country’s security and sovereignty.

Hamza also added that the numerous contributions made to the National Heroes Fund by government ministries and agencies, corporate bodies and individuals show how much the public appreciate and support the security  forces.

Also present during the award ceremony were Barisan National candidates Datuk Samsudin Yahya, Au Kam Wah, Datuk Zakaria Mohd Edris, Datin Linda Tsen and Sandakan Municipal President Datuk James Wong. (Insight Sabah)