IN the close-knit community of the Royal Malaysian Navy, a heartbreaking tragedy has struck. Senior Seaman JJM Joanna Felicia Rohna, a beloved member of the Bidayuh community, lost her life in a helicopter crash. The news has left everyone mourning, particularly Aleng Gaet, who had remained close to Joanna even after his retirement.
Aleng, deeply saddened by Joanna’s untimely departure, expressed his grief and emphasised the significance of her loss for their small navy group. The Serian natives, like Aleng and Joanna, formed a close bond due to their limited numbers. Only a handful of individuals from Serian are accepted in each recruitment intake, making the Bidayuh community within the navy especially close-knit.
Aleng shared his sorrowful memories of Joanna, including an encounter during last year’s Gawai festival. They had made a promise to reunite during the upcoming celebration, but fate had other plans. Joanna had spoken of her desire to visit Aleng’s home if she ever had a long vacation. Sadly, that promise will remain unfulfilled, shattered by her tragic departure. Aleng remembered Joanna’s words and understandingly said, “It was fate for her to be with God. May God bless her soul.”
As Aleng reminisced, he revealed that Joanna had been one of his trainers when they both served at the Lumut Naval Base. Their friendship extended beyond work, as they attended church together with their families and were part of a WhatsApp group called the Bidayuh Serian Navy Group. Their camaraderie was strong, and their connection ran deep.
On the day of the accident, Aleng saw a viral video of the helicopters colliding before crashing during a rehearsal for the Navy’s 90th anniversary event. Concerned, he tried reaching out to Joanna, but she didn’t respond—a departure from her usual prompt replies. Aleng then called Joanna’s husband, Haslie Ali, and was met with emotional confirmation that Joanna was indeed involved in the incident.
The news hit Aleng hard. He never expected that the incident would claim the life of the only female navy personnel from Serian. It felt like a devastating blow, not only to him but also to other navy veterans who were deeply affected by Joanna’s passing. Their numbers were small compared to other branches, such as the army. Within the Bidayuh community, the loss was even more profound, as they could count on one hand those who were there.
Joanna, a native of Kampung Sumpas Tampek, leaves behind her husband, Haslie Ali, and their two young children, Allesia Felice Haslie and Hovannes Haslie. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and the close-knit Bidayuh community within the Royal Malaysian Navy.
Though their hearts are heavy with grief, the story carries a message of resilience. Life goes on, despite the pain of loss. The tight bonds formed within the navy and the Bidayuh community will continue to provide support and strength to those left behind.
In general, veterans often develop strong bonds and closeness with one another due to shared experiences, common challenges, and a deep understanding of the unique circumstances they have faced.
Serving in the military involves enduring similar training, deployments, and missions. Veterans have firsthand knowledge of the physical and emotional demands, the sacrifices made, and the risks faced during their service. These shared experiences create a unique connection and understanding among veterans.
The military fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and unity among its members. Veterans have relied on one another for support, protection, and teamwork in challenging situations. This sense of brotherhood/sisterhood doesn’t diminish after leaving the service. Veterans often seek that same bond with fellow veterans, as it provides a sense of belonging and familiarity.
Trust and Reliability: In the military, trust is paramount for success and survival. Veterans have learned to depend on one another in life-or-death situations, forming unbreakable bonds of trust. This trust extends beyond the battlefield, as veterans can rely on each other for understanding, empathy, and support in civilian life.
Military service instills specific values and a unique culture that shape veterans’ identities. These values, such as honour, loyalty, and selflessness, create a common ground among veterans. They understand and appreciate the importance of these values, which strengthens their connection and fosters a sense of shared purpose.
Veterans often face challenges and experiences that may be difficult for others to comprehend fully. The transition to civilian life, dealing with post-traumatic stress, or coping with physical injuries can be complex and overwhelming. Being surrounded by fellow veterans provides a supportive environment where they can openly discuss their struggles without judgement and find empathy from those who have been through similar circumstances.
The military has its own unique language, acronyms, and humour that may be unfamiliar to those outside the military community. Veterans find comfort and connection in being able to communicate with others who understand this language. It creates a sense of belonging and shared identity that promote camaraderie. All in all, veterans tend to be close to one another because they have shared a significant part of their lives, faced common challenges, and developed deep bonds based on trust, understanding, and a sense of camaraderie. These connections provide veterans with a support system and a shared sense of purpose even after their military service has ended.
