LENGGONG: Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun may have retired seven years ago, but the former Sabah Police Commissioner has not lost his patriotic spirit.
One of the key figures behind Ops Daulat in Lahad Datu in Sabah, 11 years ago, Abdul Rashid also served in various significant roles throughout his 41-year police career.
Using his savings and gratuity, he established a campsite, Amazing Camp Legacy, in Kampung Danglang, Kuak. The campsite is part of his effort to promote Heritage and Patriotic Tourism for future generations.
Abdul Rashid said that, unlike other retirees who prefer to spend their time playing golf and traveling overseas, he chose to continue his mission of spreading patriotism in the country.
"For me, my mission to promote patriotism continues because I have the knowledge and enthusiasm to do so. "
"This camp was built with my money and my gratuity. At times, I lacked funds and had to sell my house in Kuantan, Pahang.
"My intention was to consider what I wanted to do for my legacy. Therefore, 10 per cent of the profit from this camp will be contributed to the VAT69 Commando Veterans Association and to widows who are neglected," said Abdul Rashid, who is also the association president.
The former Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander added that he built the campsite in 2018 after realising how fragile the patriotic spirit is among the current generation.
"Many people talk about patriotism, but what actions are being taken? Are we going to leave the task of instilling a sense of patriotism to our leaders, and schools alone?
"Others have much to do as well. So, what about us who are retired, former special forces, or senior officers? We need to contribute to our generation if we love our country.
"I felt the need to establish my own platform. Thus, I built this camp using my own money, pension, and gratuity.
"Although it may not be as beautiful due to my limited resources and lack of help, I did not ask for assistance, and no one offered it. No one inquired," he said.
He added that the camp serves as a platform to contribute to the generation, emphasising that the country belongs to everyone and its sovereignty and peace need to be defended.
"When we talk about heritage, people often forget that commandos are also part of it.
"Commandos have existed since before World War I, continued through both World Wars, and remain crucial even afterward.
"Most countries still have their commando units today, reflecting a legacy passed down through generations.
"Although I no longer serve in the commando, my legacy remains, with new generations undergoing the same training and expertise. This is part of the heritage that we tend to overlook," he said.
Abdul Rashid said he managed to convince Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad of his efforts to introduce heritage and patriotic tourism in the state.
"Patriotism is a shared asset, which is why heritage and patriotic tourism should exist. With this awareness, I managed to convince the Perak Menteri Besar, even though I am not from Perak.
"Patriotism isn't about being from Perak, Johor, Sabah, or Sarawak, it's about contributing something meaningful," he said, adding that the camp measures about four hectares and can accommodate 500 people at one time.
When asked why he chose Lenggong to build his camp, Abdul Rashid said that many of his friends died in Perak during wars and that Ulu Kinta General Operations Force is where the commando was born.
"Many may wonder if the land for the camp was a gift. I bought this land myself. It wasn't a gift. Who cares about me or my situation?
"The country is at peace, my sacrifices are over.
"How many times did I risk my life, and how many times was I supposed to die but didn't?
"I was targeted by the Sulu terrorists, but I'm still alive, Alhamdulillah. Who cares about all this?"
He said his intention is to leave behind something tangible and meaningful for future generations and that he didn't want to leave something that is vague or ephemeral.