No heart for veterans at IJN?
I READ about the military veterans who were discharged from the National Heart Institute (IJN) while undergoing treatment, and I thoroughly sympathise with their plight.
I too experienced the sudden stopping of my treatment. I was not allowed to renew my appointment to follow up at the IJN despite telling them I live just a stone’s throw away.
The little Napoleons acting as gatekeepers even ignored a referral letter. To add insult to injury, I was told I could get an appointment in the private wing if I was willing to pay.
While the cost-cutting measures by the Health Ministry makes some sense, the little Napoleons in the ministry have ignored other imperatives.
Perhaps it is not out of ill-will or malice, but nevertheless, not well-thought through policies have the unintended consequences of sabotaging the principles of caring and compassion under the current supposedly inclusive Madani government.
This arbitrary policy smells of hypocrisy and selective injustice. Carried to the extreme, the double-standard policy may do more damage than good in a country where the government is trying to retain the support of the rakyat. Incidentally, military veterans comprise close to one million voters!
We veterans have dedicated a significant portion of our lives to serving the country, often enduring hardships, risking our lives, and sacrificing time with our families. Many of us are sick, some bedridden due to old age and from diseases inflicted during our service. Many require treatment at the IJN but now are unlikely to receive it despite our sacrifices.
Why punish sick veterans? A strong military relies on recruiting and retaining skilled personnel. Treating veterans well sends a signal to current service members that their sacrifices will be recognised and valued, which can improve morale and retention rates.
When I joined the military, the government of the day promised to provide lifetime benefits, including the right to receive free medical services in government hospitals. Failing to fulfil these promises can erode trust in government institutions and discourage individuals from joining military service in the future.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging for many veterans. Many face difficulties in finding employment, accessing healthcare, or reintegrating into their communities. Providing support services and resources can help facilitate a smoother transition and improve overall well-being.
How a society treats its veterans reflects its values and priorities. Demonstrating care and respect for veterans sends a powerful message about the nation’s gratitude for their service and its commitment to honouring those who have defended its freedoms.
Treating military veterans with care and respect is not only a moral imperative but also serves to uphold the principles of gratitude, duty, and honour to the veterans.
MAJOR (RTD) HAMZAH AHMAD Kuala Lumpur
The writer was formerly a major in the Royal Malay Regiment.