Malaya and the Emergency (1950-53)

Chapter 10 - Conclusion (as seen in the late 1950's)

In 1950 the Korean War and events in Indo-China gave great encouragement to the Communists in Malaya. At that time the terrorists were extremely active and they received considerable assistance from a large proportion of the native population, especially the Chinese. Very large military and police security forces were deployed. Every day innocent people were being killed and the maintenance of law and order was an uphill struggle. The morale of the people was low and it seemed as if the Emergency might last indefinitely. Today Korea and Indo-China are at least temporarily quiet, and in Malaya the terrorists are very subdued although not yet eradicated. The country now has the prospect of early self-government, and that in itself might well be the final blow to the Communist insurrection, although the danger is that the movement might go completely underground and we know well that Communism is at its most dangerous when it is least obvious. Within the Regiment the numbers of those who served in Malaya grow less and less. There is still talk of the old times, but now only the good things are remembered. Looking back, many recollections stand out, but the most memorable is that of the soldier himself. His remarkable adaptability in strange surroundings; his endurance in heat and the vilest country; his astonishing cheerfulness and resilience, particularly the young National Serviceman. But whatever they thought then and whatever they remember now, it may be hoped that they realise that they have added a page to the history of a Regiment and that old traditions have been well maintained.

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