About Us

                                           Brief on Association and Branch

Background

The Malayan Emergency (1948-1960 ) and the Indonesian Confrontation ( 1963-1966 ) although termed so, were in fact, nothing less than undeclared war, that was conducted on and in, what still is today, the most inhospitable terrain and climatic conditions that can be found any where in the world.

The British (including the Gurkha´s who played a major role from beginning to end) and Commonwealth troops that were involved over the years, faced not only a human enemy but also a relentless Mother Nature, where extremely high humidity partnered the stinking swamps, primary jungle, mountainous terrain, legions of hostile insects, reptiles and animals and the host of horrific ailments and disease that thrived in those conditions. Many made the ultimate sacrifice, a high proportion being National Servicemen whose average age lay between 18 and 22 years. Compared to the lot of the soldier of today their equipment, like their pay, was abysmal and the words hero and welfare were still in the distant future.

After the ending of hostilities and as the years passed, the war and sacrifice, that ensured the freedom and democracy of the people of the State of Malaysia threatened to become another forgotten piece of history.

 

The Association

On the 1st of June 1994 the National Malaya and Borneo Veterans Association was founded and brought together under its Constitution, veterans not only from the United Kingdom, but also from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Canada. One of their primary aims was to ensure that those who gave their lives were not to be forgotten. One of the Associations  major achievements was the Unveiling and Dedication of a Memorial Plaque for the N.M.B.V.A. in St Paul´s Cathedral on the 21st of April 2005. The Association is also a dedicated supporter of The Gurkha Welfare Trust.

 

The Branch

The Deutschland Branch of the N.M.B.V.A. was founded on the 1st of October  2005 and as its name indicates it covers the whole geographical area of Germany. Although a small branch in comparison to others, its members are dedicated, and abide fully by the Associations motto “Be of Good Courage”. It represents the Association, in Germany, on as many public and memorial events as possible and is seeking affiliations with similar organisations of all nationalities, and will, especially, promote Anglo-German relationships. Firm communications have already been established with the Malaysian Embassy to Germany in Berlin with a view to cooperating on matters of mutual benefit and strengthening of our ties with Malaysia.

The branch is seeking new members. For those who have served in Malaya, Borneo, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Java and Sumatra and value good comradeship above all else, a warm welcome is guaranteed as an ordinary member of the Association and Branch. For those who have not served in the afore mentioned theatres but would like to support the aims and objectives of the Association and also value good comradeship, an invitation is extended to become an associate member of the Association and Branch.

For further information please contact initially Bob Wortley  +49 5056 253011 Branch Secretary