KUALA LUMPUR: The contributions to the nation and the sacrifices made by army, navy, and air force personnel must not be forgotten during this festive season.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said the welfare of servicemen was important and must be given priority.

"The strength of the Armed Forces doesn't lie in just the equipment we have.

"Like any other organisation, the human factor is especially important," he said at the presentation of Hari Raya goodies to servicemen yesterday.

Among the organisations that contributed were the Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers (Bakti), Petronas Malaysia, Affin Bank Bhd and Sapura Group.
Najib said the annual event was much appreciated by the armed forces personnel and despite the slow economy, more contributions were received this year than before.

A total of RM1.1 million was donated by various organisations to prepare the 15,000 packages of goodies.

Bakti president Datin Seri Paduka Jeanne Abdullah said she hopes the goodies will bring a touch of home to the servicemen on duty abroad during Hari Raya.

"Even though these packs are not as big as the sacrifices they make for the country, I hope they will accept this as a small token of appreciation from us," she said.