British High Commission holds Remembrance Sunday service at Tugu Negara

KUALA LUMPUR: The British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur held its annual Remembrance Sunday service at Tugu Negara today to commemorate 81 years since the end of the Second World War and honour personnel and civilians who served in both world wars and other conflicts.

British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma said the sacrifices of service personnel and civilians reminded everyone not to take peace for granted.

"Today, we stand in quiet reflection to remember the courage and sacrifice of all those who served in times of war and conflict, especially those who never returned home.

"As we honour their memory, we renew our shared responsibility to work together towards a future defined by peace and understanding," he said.

The event brought together diplomatic and defence communities, including ambassadors, high commissioners, defence attachés and advisers.

Representatives from the Malaysian Armed Forces, Malaysian Veterans' Associations, local societies and schools were present.

The service included a performance by The International School @ ParkCity, reflections by Reverend Dinesh Natorajan, and readings of Rupert Brooke's "The Soldier" by Lieutenant General (R) Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng and Moina Michael's "We Shall Keep the Faith" by Kenneth Speldewinde.

United Kingdom Defence Adviser at the British High Commission Colonel James Green read Robert Laurence Binyon's "For the Fallen".

After observing two minutes of silence, the ceremony ended with the laying of wreaths at the base of the Cenotaph.

Remembrance Day is held on the second Sunday of November.

The milestone reminds the world of the enduring legacy of peace and the sacrifices made by generations past.

The service recognised the contributions of British, Commonwealth and other international military personnel in the two world wars and subsequent conflicts, as well as the vital role civilians played. - BERNAMA