The call comes after sergeant Wan Ramly Wan Seman, from the Royal Malay Regiment’s 24th battalion was given a dishonourable discharge because he had refused to be vaccinated for Covid-19. Wan Ramly had 19 years of service without any disciplinary record.

The order for his discharge will be effective from Thursday. He said his date of normal discharge would have been Jan 21, 2023, adding that he was supposed to have reported for his resettlement training next March.

Following the discharge order, there have been many responses from veterans commenting on the issue.

In a statement, the Malaysian Armed Forces Veterans Association (PVATM) said it was inappropriate for veterans to intervene in military affairs without knowing the latest military rules and regulations.

“This includes making negative comments that could influence other veterans who are equally unaware of the real issue,” the association said in a statement today.

“PVATM believes that the authorities have given due consideration before taking any action on the issue.

“In this context, PVATM is of the opinion that Wan Ramly’s refusal as a person who has served for 19 years and holds the rank of sergeant to be vaccinated can endanger many parties, including colleagues, the community, the public and his own family.

“If action is not taken against disobedience of orders, it can affect other colleagues and this will affect the morale and spirit of the entire organisation.”

Earlier, another veterans group National Patriots Association (Patriot) president Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mohamed Arshad Raji said he had been briefed about the case and was trying to help.

He said the best way forward would have been to give him an early resettlement course where he could spend time learning a trade before he completes his service.

“This sergeant did not commit a crime, his case should be reviewed,” he said.

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