Warriors' Day: 'Darah Yang Terpercik Di Baju' Pays Tribute To Nation's Heroes
PUTRAJAYA, July 31 (Bernama) -- Among the rows of heroes, veterans of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), a soft yet powerful female voice pierced the stillness of the morning, evoking memories of bloodshed and sacrifice on the battlefield.
The poem, titled 'Darah Yang Terpercik di Baju,' was more than just a recitation. For Staff Sergeant Siti Nur Aini Jasni, it was a heartfelt expression of duty and devotion - a pledge of loyalty spoken with love. A member of the ATM for over two decades, she delivered each line not just with voice, but with the weight of experience as a military personnel.
Chosen for the third time to recite a poem in conjunction with Warriors' Day, Siti Nur Aini considers the opportunity a deeply meaningful honour, especially as she stands before rows of veterans who remain resolute, even as age begins to weigh on their bodies.
'When I see the veterans marching with such enthusiasm, despite their age and physical limitations, my heart aches,' she said.
'Their unwavering spirit breathes life into every verse I recite,' she added, referring to the poem written by the late Norazimah Abu Bakar.
Having begun reciting poetry during her school days, the 40-year-old from Kulim, Kedah, said her passion for poetry has remained strong throughout her career in the military. Her dedication has earned her several accolades, including being crowned champion of the ATM 'Sayembara Deklamasi Puisi Kemerdekaan' 2023.
However, Siti Nur Aini is quick to point out that it's not the awards that matter most, but how poetry can stir the hearts of the younger generation and remind them of the sacrifices made by the country's heroes.
'The verses that touches me most deeply are: 'selimut pejuang yang gugur perlahan dilepaskan' and 'dari liang pusara menyambut syahdu, resam terpercik darah di baju masih basah, bersemadi di kalbuku'. These lines pierce straight to the heart.
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