Commemorating those who served in Malaya and Borneo

Each year on 31 August we recognise the Australian defence personnel who served in the Malayan Emergency and the Indonesian Confrontation. 

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said it is important to never forget the 39 Australians who died in Malaya, and the 23 Australians who died during the Confrontation. 

“On Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Day it is important that we acknowledge our personnel who served in Malaya, a military commitment by Australia of some 13 years,” Minister Keogh said. 

“This commemoration is particularly personal for me, as my Great Aunt was a nurse who served in the Malayan Emergency. 

“The Malayan Emergency was declared in 1948, after the Malayan Communist Party launched an insurgency against the British colonial government.”

Australia entered the conflict in 1950 and would carried out anti-insurgency operations until August 1962, with forces remaining as a deterrent until 1963.

“The Indonesian Confrontation started in late 1962, and would again see Australian forces committed. It took place mainly on the island of Borneo.” Minister Keogh said.

“It was an undeclared war between Indonesia and the new state of Malaysia, and Australian troops assisted Malaysia in operations from 1964 to 1966,” 

“Today we commemorate those the Australians who died during the Malayan Emergency and the Indonesian Confrontation, while acknowledging the bravery and sacrifice of all who served during these conflicts.”

You can learn more about the Malayan Emergency and Indonesian Confrontation on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Anzac Portal.

Authorised by The Hon Matt Keogh MP.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608