Sarawakian navy officer Joanna laid to rest, surrounded by loved ones

Family and friends, including Joanna's mother and siblings, sprinkle flowers on her resting place during the funeral ceremony.

By Karen Bong and Wilfred Pilo

SERIAN, April 25: Sarawakian Navy Officer Joanna Felicia Rohna was laid to rest at Kampung Engkeroh Christian Cemetery, enveloped in love and honour.

Accorded a final naval military tribute, Able Seaman Joanna’s journey concluded as she was interred at 11.33am.


Joanna was among the 10 crew members who were killed when their helicopters crashed during a Navy rehearsal exercise at the Royal Malaysian Navy camp in Lumut on April 23.

Pastor Andrew Ganya from the Seventh Day Adventist Church Sarawak led the prayer ceremony, urging loved ones and attendees to find solace in faith.

(From right) Joanna’s mother and husband Haslie, together with her two young children in the arms of Navy officers sprinkle flowers on her grave as they say their last goodbyes.

Amidst tears, Joanna’s parents, four siblings, and husband Haslie Ali bid their farewells as her coffin was lowered into the earth.

In a poignant moment, Joanna’s young children, four-year-old daughter Allesia Felice and one-year-old son Hovannes, scattered flowers upon her resting place.

Among those who paid their final respects include Deputy State Secretary Datu Buckland Bangik, Serian Member of Parliament Datuk Richard Riot, Commander of 1st Division Major General Datuk Fauzi Kamis, and Lt-General (R) Datuk Stephen Mundaw. — DayakDaily

Navy officers rendering the final salute during the funeral ceremony.

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