MELAKA, June 17 -- Since 2004, a total of 48,346 Malaysian Armed Forces (Angkatan Tentera Malaysia in Bahasa Malaysia) veterans have been awarded the Malaysian Service Medal or Pingat Jasa Malaysia (PJM) in recognition of their contribution to the nation.

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari described the medal as a symbol of the government's appreciation of ATM veterans who fought to protect the country, religion, and race.

"This awarding of the medals is very meaningful, especially to former soldiers who sacrificed so much in the fight to eliminate Communist elements during the previous Emergency era," he said.

"It is also a gesture of gratitude from society for the sacrifices of these national heroes, which have enabled the peace we ...