The constant drizzle at the 64-year-old army camp, headquarters of the Malaysian army’s 3rd Infantry Division, did little to dampen the spirits of the old soldiers as they visited familiar places around the camp, which was built by the British in 1958 and handed over to Malaysia in 1970.

Robinson and Priestley were on duty at the camp and at the original Jungle Warfare School in Kota Tinggi, Johor, as part of the Commonwealth troops between 1961 and 1969.

Unlike the disappointment they faced on Tuesday when their request to enter the camp was turned down by sentries in accordance with standard operating procedures, which required written permission from the defence ministry (Mindef), they received a warm welcome when they arrived at 9am this morning.

Touched by their plight as highlighted by FMT yesterday, defence minister Hishammuddin Hussein had instructed his office to help them fulfil their wish to visit the camp by fast-tracking the approval with the assistance of the British High Commission’s defence attache.

The quandary of the former British soldiers was highlighted by veteran journalist M Veera Pandiyan in his Facebook post.

Their nostalgic tour began at the Terendak memorial stone at the entrance of the camp, followed by a visit to the quarters and barracks where the Commonwealth forces were housed and the cemetery where fallen soldiers and members of their families were buried.

They also visited the Terendak Camp Catholic church and also the old Anglican church building where Robinson got married, which has now been converted into an exercise centre used by physical training instructors.

They passed by familiar old buildings, including the camp’s hospital where Robinson’s son was born.

“We are truly touched by the help of the minister, the chief of the armed forces, the chief of the army and everyone who has granted us this historic visit.

“We never expected such a welcome. We appreciate all their help. We also want to wish all Malaysians a very happy Malaysia Day,” Robinson said when interviewed by the camp’s PR unit midway through the tour.

At the end of the emotive two-hour long journey, they were greeted by Third Division commander Major-General Rashidin Hashimi Ab Rashid, who hosted brunch.

Rashidin also handed over souvenirs in the form of a book titled “May 13 1969: A security perspective” written by Dr Nordin Yusof and published by the Royal Malay Regiment Officers’ Club.

Robinson and Priestley were also invited to sign the camp’s visitor book before they left.