The hidden price and unseen scars behind Malaysia’s peace
Retired Major Salehuddin Abd Muttalib reflects on his military service in Malaysia, spanning from the 1969 racial riots to the communist insurgency. His story highlights the personal toll of conflict and the fragility of national peace.
Why it matters
It provides a human perspective on historical events that shaped modern Malaysian society and military history.
Major Salehuddin Abd Muttalib (Rtd) has learnt that the burden of duty can linger long after fighting has ended. (Andrea Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle)
KUALA LUMPUR: Before turning 21, Major Salehuddin Abd Muttalib (Rtd) had already seen how easily Malaysia’s peace could be shattered.
Tunku Abdul Rahman’s proclamation of “Merdeka!” marked the end of colonial rule, but not the nation’s struggle for peace.
In the years that followed, racial unrest and communist insurgencies placed Salehuddin on the front lines. He joined the Royal Military College in 1967 and was commissioned on April 12, 1969, into the Reconnaissance Regiment in Port Dickson.
A month later, the May 13 riots broke out.
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