By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 31: As the haunting notes of the Last Post filled the morning air at Heroes’ Monument Park in Taman Budaya, the Warriors’ Day Assembly 2025 began with quiet, heartfelt respect. Veterans, officers, dignitaries, and civilians stood together in solemn silence.
Veterans, some with walking sticks and others in dark suits or uniforms, stood side by side, medals with ribbons of red, blue, green and gold shining quietly on their chests, each one telling a story of service and sacrifice.
Among the most distinguished present were three recipients of the Panglima Gagah Berani (PGB) medal, Malaysia’s second-highest gallantry award. They were Sergeant (Rtd) James Mering Imang, 77, Sergeant (Rtd) Dajai Anggie, 82, and Lance Corporal (Rtd) Bajau Ladi, 78.
All three wore ceremonial maroon uniforms, their medals gleaming proudly across their chests. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of Sarawak’s place in the nation’s military history.
The ceremony featured patriotic songs, a poetry recitation, wreath-laying, a moment of silence and prayers to honour the fallen.
In his speech, Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg paid tribute to the sacrifices of national heroes, with a special emphasis on Sarawak’s own historical experience in confronting threats to sovereignty.
“Our armed forces played a major role in fighting the communist threat and the Confrontation from the 1960s to the early 1980s, which eventually brought lasting peace to Sarawak,” he said in a speech text delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Abang Johari also reminded all present that the nation’s independence and harmony were not easily earned, but gained through a long and painful struggle.
“We must be aware that the blessings we inherit today were not obtained easily or in a short time. They are the outcome of continuous struggle and sacrifices of our national heroes to defend every inch of this beloved land,” he added.
He also called on Malaysians to offer prayers for fallen warriors and to support those who are still with us, especially the wounded, the disabled and the families they left behind.
He added that the Sarawak government has strong confidence in the support and sacrifices of veterans. The continued service of armed forces personnel, police and other security members is seen as vital in helping to drive the State’s development and prosperity.
Meanwhile, retired Lieutenant General Datuk Stephen Mundaw, now a Special Duties Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development (MUDeNR), said Warriors’ Day is not just a moment of remembrance but a national call to revive patriotism and love for the country.
“We are here today to remember the contributions of those who have fallen and those who are still with us, including many among you today, former security personnel who served fearlessly and tirelessly.
“The peace and freedom we enjoy today are a result of the bravery and sacrifice of our national heroes. They risked everything to defend our beloved homeland. This spirit must be remembered, appreciated and passed on,” he said.
Mundaw also honoured the Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police, describing them as symbols of strength and resilience.
Quoting a Malay proverb, he said, “As the saying goes, Harimau mati meninggalkan belang, manusia mati meninggalkan nama (A tiger dies leaving its stripes, a person dies leaving their name).”
He said the names and deeds of Malaysia’s heroes, including those present at the assembly, will remain forever etched in history as individuals who defended the nation’s honour and sovereignty.
Also present were Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik, Majlis Adat Istiadat Sarawak (MAIS) chief Datu Ronnie Edward, and Brigadier General (Dr) Shamsul Bahary bin Muhamad, Director of Health at the Eastern Field Command Headquarters of the Army.
– DayakDaily
