Published: Wednesday, 14th May, 2008 12:00
Malaysia pays tribute to soldier – after 50 years
By Jamie MacDonald
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Proud former soldier Alexander Freck shows off the medal presented to him by the Malaysian Army.
Pic by: David Robertson
ALMOST half a century after Alloa’s Alexander Freck fought with the British Army in Malaysia his efforts have been officially recognised by the Malaysian Government.
From 1959 until 1963, Alexander (70) was based in the country with the Queen’s Own Highlanders as they fought for Malaysia and Borneo against Indonesia.
Last week, at a ceremony in Perth, he received the Pingat Jasa Malaysia medal for his contribution. The medal has been awarded to British veterans who served in operations in Malaysia between August 1957 and August 1966.
Alexander said, “I was quite pleased when I heard I would be receiving the medal. There were around 400 people being presented with the medals, but I think I was the only one there from Clackmannanshire. I’m sure there must be more folk from here eligible for it.”
The presentation was made by Colonel Alwi of the Malaysian Army, and many awards were picked up by family members of former soldiers.
Alexander said, “It was good to see Malaysia sending their Colonel over as this must be something they are taking seriously.”
Alexander stayed with his wife, Peggy, and their children in Malaysia at Selerang Barracks during his service, although for six-month periods he would be away in the local jungles with the rest of the troops.
He said, “We would be away fighting or on patrol of the long houses. The long houses would have about 200 families in them and we would make sure the people inside were protected.
“I’ve got great memories of my time there. We used to start at 8am and be finished by noon as the afternoon was too warm to work. When I had a weekend off we would go to Kuala Lumpur or Penang for the day.”
Having previously been stationed in Dover and Edinburgh, Alexander was keen to extend his time in Malaysia, but it proved to be difficult to obtain another term so he returned home after a total of six years’ service.
The General Service Medal for Brunei was previously presented to him from the British Government in recognition of his service.
Alexander would like to highlight that all troops, and their family members, who served in Malaysia can apply for the medal through Army veterans organisations.
He added, “At the awards ceremony there were people there whose husbands have died but they are still entitled to be presented with the medal.”
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