VDM PLATFORM TO STRENGTHEN CIVIL-MILITARY TIES, SUPPORTS MADANI AGENDA

GUA MUSANG, May 3 (Bernama) -- Over 1,000 visitors attended the Veteran Desa MADANI (VDM) programme today, an initiative by the Defence Ministry to enhance the welfare and well-being of Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) veterans, particularly those in the asnaf and B40 groups.

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the rural-based programme focused on five key areas, namely welfare, health, housing, education and empowerment.

“This programme serves as a collaborative platform between the ministry and state governments to deliver targeted welfare assistance to veterans and the local community at large.

“It also strengthens civil-military cooperation in line with the ministry’s efforts to expand the concept of Comprehensive Defence through the involvement of communities and the Volunteer Forces,” he told reporters after attending the event at Masjid Jamek Tengku Muhammad Fa-iz Petra here today.

Adly added that the ministry remains committed to advancing the welfare of veterans in line with the Malaysia MADANI principles, which emphasise compassion and overall well-being.

Meanwhile, MAF veteran Muhammad Derahman, 70, welcomed the initiative, saying it provided crucial support for veterans in accessing services after retirement.

“Programmes like this make us, former servicemen, feel appreciated even though we are no longer serving in the armed forces,” he said.

Visitor Azrul Fauzi, 46, said the participation of various agencies in the event allowed the public to gain a better understanding of the roles and functions of government departments.

“Not only did I get to see MAF’s defence assets up close, but I also received explanations about the roles of agencies such as the police, the Social Welfare Department, and the Department of Orang Asli Development.

“I hope programmes like this will continue, as they help the public better understand and appreciate the contributions of government agencies,” he added.

-- BERNAMA