PUTRAJAYA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, attended the National Heroes’ Day 2026 celebration parade at Dataran Pahlawan Negara today.
The event was held to honour the enduring legacy of those who sacrificed their lives to defend the nation’s sovereignty and maintain peace within the country.
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the high price paid for the stability enjoyed by Malaysians today.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister emphasised that the current state of peace and prosperity is not a given but is the result of immense courage, loyalty, and sacrifice by national heroes throughout history.
He urged citizens to remember these contributions and view the defence of the homeland as a shared trust.
A highlight of the commemoration was a moving pantomime performance titled “Darah Pahlawan Ulu Legong”. The theatrical presentation recreated the harrowing events of 29 October 1981 in Ulu Legong, Baling, Kedah.
It depicted the bravery of seven security personnel who lost their lives while battling communist terrorists. The performance brought historical records to life, allowing the audience to visualise the intensity of the conflict and the selflessness of the soldiers involved.
Prime Minister Anwar expressed deep appreciation for the survivors and families connected to the incident. He specifically acknowledged Private Md Said Adam, who survived the ambush in Ulu Legong, for his presence and resilience.
The Prime Minister also extended his gratitude to Lieutenant Colonel Hamzah Othman, the Commanding Officer of the 22nd Royal Malay Regiment (22 RAMD), for his leadership and dedication to preserving the regiment’s heritage.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the heirs and family members of the fallen heroes. He recognised their strength in carrying forward the legacy of their loved ones and thanked them for their continued support of the nation’s security forces.
Their presence at the ceremony underscored the personal cost of national service and the enduring bond between the military community and the state.
In his message, Anwar reiterated that the services of these heroes are etched in the collective memory of the nation.
He called on all Malaysians to uphold the values of patriotism and unity, ensuring that the sovereignty of the country remains intact for future generations.
The theme of the day, “Remembering Service, Strengthening Defence”, resonated strongly with the attendees, highlighting the continuous need for vigilance and national cohesion.
The Prime Minister concluded his remarks with a prayer, asking Allah SWT to bless the souls of the fallen heroes.
He also sought divine strength for all members of the Malaysian Armed Forces and other security agencies currently serving the nation.
His wishes included a plea for the preservation of a peaceful, sovereign, and prosperous Malaysia, free from internal and external threats.
National Heroes’ Day serves as an annual platform to reflect on the country’s history and the individuals who shaped its destiny.
By commemorating these events, the government aims to instil a sense of pride and responsibility among citizens, particularly the younger generation. Understanding the struggles of the past is seen as crucial for building a resilient and united society.
The attendance of the Prime Minister and the First Lady at the parade demonstrated the highest level of state recognition for these sacrifices.
Their presence reinforced the message that the government remains committed to honouring its veterans and supporting the families of those who died in the line of duty.
As the ceremony concluded, the atmosphere was one of solemn respect and renewed commitment to national ideals.
The stories of Ulu Legong and other historical conflicts continue to inspire current security personnel and civilians alike.
The legacy of the seven heroes remains a powerful symbol of the ultimate sacrifice made for the nation’s freedom.
Happy Heroes’ Day 2026. The nation stands united in gratitude for those who gave everything to ensure Malaysia remains a safe and sovereign home for all its people.
