Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) has received more than RM2 million in contributions from 50 individual and corporate donors for the preparation of 16,000 Aidilfitri gift bags for personnel serving both locally and abroad.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that the contributions comprised RM1.8 million in cash and RM254,000 worth of goods. This initiative is part of the ongoing tradition to provide Aidilfitri gift bags that include festive cookies, traditional delicacies, and daily essentials to ATM personnel.

'Our national heroes continue to serve with dedication, loyalty and sincerity. It is important for us to express our appreciation, support and remembrance for those who will be on duty during Hari Raya,' the minister expressed at a ceremony to present the Aidilfitri contributions to ATM. Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari delivered Mohamed Khaled's speech text at the event, which was also attended by Chief of Defence Force Gen Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman.

Mohamed Khaled emphasized that the initiative aims to ease the longing felt by personnel who must be away from their families while carrying out duties, including safeguarding national borders and participating in international peacekeeping missions.

Meanwhile, ATM mentioned in a statement that the donated items had been collected since February and packed in phases with the involvement of its personnel. The final 400 bags were completed by members of the Armed Forces Family Welfare Association (BAKAT) on February 27 as a symbol of care and support for personnel celebrating Syawal away from their families.