Ipoh folk learn about military paraphernalia and life of soldiers

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IPOH folks had the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the Royal Malaysian Army during the simultaneous launch of Territorial Army companies for the Batu Gajah, Beruas, Ipoh Barat, Ipoh Timur and Sungai Siput parliamentary constituencies.

Held at the Ipoh Padang, children and adults alike climbed onto armoured vehicles and jeeps to pose for photographs.

Army personnel, who were on duty to supervise them, obliged to have their photographs taken alongside the visitors.

Riding red: Members of the Army Red Warrior performing a stunt.

There were also various booths showcasing information about the army, Territorial Army and other uniformed groups in the country.

One particular booth was of interest to many — it was where the army demonstrated how soldiers survive in the jungle by using traps to catch small animals and explained how soldiers survive in the jungle without rations.

A few brave souls even tried eating sago worms and various edible leaves, which are often food for the soldiers when there was nothing else to eat.

The firearms booth was another crowd-puller with members of the public trying their hands at firing rifles, machine-guns and rocket launchers.

Earlier during the launch by army chief General Datuk Zulkifli Zainal Abidin, guests were left enthralled by a display of stunts by members of the “Army Red Warrior”, who on their Scrambler motorcycles jumped over cars. The soldiers also performed martial arts.

Tank top: Young visitors taking pictures on an army tank for remembrance.

In his speech, Zulkifli said the Territorial Army consisted of various races coming together to defend the country against threats.

“We need to instil the spirit of patriotism and nationalism amongst the people.

“Together, we share the same responsibility to ensure peace and harmony in the country,” he said.

He pointed out that the Territorial Army companies had been set up in 212 parliamentary constituencies throughout the country.

There were only 10 constituencies left, including three in Perak, namely Bukit Gantang, Parit Buntar and Lenggong that have yet to set up companies.