By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, March 26: The Malaysian Army (TDM) has confirmed that the death of Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri, a 21-year-old soldier from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (20 RAMD) at Kem Sri Miri, Sarawak is suspected to be linked to manhandling, with a post-mortem revealing blunt trauma to the chest as the cause of death.
In an official statement today, the TDM’s Public Relations Cell disclosed that the incident was reported on March 24, 2025, and that the autopsy, conducted at Miri Hospital on March 25, determined the fatal injury as contusio cordis – a severe impact to the chest that caused damage to the heart.
Preliminary investigations suggested that elements of manhandling may have contributed to his fatal injuries.
As a result, the TDM has handed over the case to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for further investigation while also establishing an internal Board of Inquiry to examine the circumstances leading to the incident.
The remains of Muqriz were flown to Kuala Lumpur, where he was laid to rest at Al-Islamiah Mosque Cemetery, Kampung Lindungan, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, at 11.55pm last night (March 25).
Army Chief General Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan has vowed full cooperation with the authorities to ensure a transparent and fair investigation.
He emphasised that the TDM will not compromise with any personnel found responsible for the incident.
“We urge the public to refrain from making speculative statements that could interfere with the investigation,” he said, adding that the TDM is committed to upholding justice.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, Hafizuddeain assured them of the army’s support during this difficult time. — DayakDaily
