Mainlanders join the Naval Region 5 to on a pre-Tet trip to southwestern Vietnamese islands (Photo: Tran Hieu/ VOV's correspondent in the Mekong Delta region)

A flag-raising ceremony was held on Hon Khoai island, Ca Mau province, about 14 kilometers from the mainland, leaving great impression on the participants.

"I had very special impression when seeing the national flag flying on the island and hearing the national anthem. It’s quite different from other flag-raising ceremonies I’ve attended on the mainland.”

"We feel fortunate to live in peace on the mainland and are grateful to the soldiers stationed on remote islands. We learn that we must be as resilient as the soldiers and contribute more to our homeland."

The Southwestern islands have seen significant changes. Infrastructure systems such as roads, medical clinics, freshwater reservoirs, electricity, and schools have been improved, making life easier and more convenient for the residents.