SIBU (Sept 25): A sombre and heart-wrenching atmosphere engulfed St Anthony’s Chapel at Oya Camp last night as the remains of Corporal Petrus Linggi Liman, who tragically lost his life in Song, arrived for his final military funeral prayers. The 29-year-old soldier was a member of the Third Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment and was fatally shot while undergoing training in the remote area.
Funeral Ceremony with Full Military Honours
The ceremony, led by Sergeant Sathis Kumar Kanasen and eight other soldiers, was held in accordance with regimental customs to honour the fallen soldier. Brigadier-General Ahmad Norzaini Badrun, commander of the Ninth Infantry Brigade, shared in a heartfelt Facebook post that the military honours reflected the deep respect and pride felt for Petrus’ service.
Attendance of Military and Family Members
Among those attending the moving service were Lieutenant Colonel Majani Japon, commanding officer of the unit, and Jamayah Bujang, chairman of the Third Battalion Royal Ranger Regiment Malaysian Armed Forces Family Welfare Association (Bakat). Donations were presented to Petrus’ grieving family members as a symbol of the military’s support during this difficult time.
Final Journey to Simunjan for Burial
After the emotional ceremony at Oya Camp, the cortege embarked on the solemn journey to Petrus’ home at Rumah Janting in Simunjan, Pakan for burial. According to posts shared on social media, the cortege arrived at the longhouse at 6:30 PM, where family members, relatives, and villagers gathered to pay their final respects to the fallen hero.
A Village United in Grief
The usually vibrant and joyous atmosphere of the longhouse turned into one of sorrow as the villagers expressed their grief and admiration for Petrus. His tragic death has left a deep wound in the hearts of those who knew him, as the community mourns the loss of one of their own.
Investigation into Fatal Shooting
As the nation grieves, Sarawak police commissioner Datuk Mancha Ata confirmed that two suspects, both aged 31, have been arrested in connection with the incident. They are being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. It was revealed that both individuals were engaged in illegal hunting activities in the area at the time of the shooting.
Timeline of the Tragic Incident
The fatal incident occurred at 2:45 AM on Monday, as Petrus and his fellow soldiers were resting near an unpaved logging road in Song. After being shot, Petrus was given immediate emergency treatment before being rushed to the Song Health Clinic at 4:00 AM. Despite all efforts, he was pronounced dead at 7:43 AM at Kapit Hospital.