By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, June 4: Corporal Etin Jam, the last surviving recipient of the Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa (SP) medal from Sarawak, passed away this morning at Miri Hospital. He was 83.
Etin, a distinguished hero and one of only six SP recipients from Sarawak, succumbed to lung cancer complications at 6:49am.
He had been admitted to the hospital on May 28 for treatment.
Etin’s life was marked by bravery and sacrifice. Born on Dec 31, 1940, in Lubok Antu, Simanggang, Sarawak, he joined the Malaysian Police Force on Feb 27, 1963, and rose to the rank of Corporal before retiring on Dec 31, 1995.
His most notable act of valour occurred on April 29, 1972, when he and his unit were ambushed by communist insurgents while escorting explosives for the Public Works Department in the Jalan Oya area, Sibu. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Etin and his comrades successfully defended their convoy, an act for which he was awarded the highest Malaysian honour on July 6, 1972.
Etin is survived by his daughters Linda Nacha, 57, Nur Mila, 56, and Lily, 48.
He had nine grandchildren. His family is currently awaiting the State government’s decision on whether he will be buried in the Heroes’ Mausoleum in Kuching.
His eldest daughter, Linda, expressed the family’s unanimous wish for this honour, noting that a wake will first be held in Miri.
Etin had been living with Linda since the death of his wife, Singgah Inggat, in 2017. Originally residing in Taman Tunku, he moved in with his daughter in Spring Riam.
The late corporal’s remarkable record of bravery includes an intense four-hour battle against nearly 100 communist insurgents. Etin, then a constable, and his comrades held their ground until reinforcements arrived, ultimately forcing the insurgents to retreat.
Etin’s legacy is a testament to his courage and dedication to his country. His passing marks the end of an era for Sarawak’s decorated heroes, leaving a profound impact on his family and the nation. — DayakDaily
