Bravery award recipient Etin Jam remembered for heroic service

Facebook
X
WhatsApp
Telegram
Email
Former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Jamil Johari  pays his last respect to Etin

LET’S READ SUARA SARAWAK/ NEW SARAWAK TRIBUNE E-PAPER FOR FREE AS ​​EARLY AS 2 AM EVERY DAY. CLICK LINK

The late Corporal (Ret) Etin Jam is remembered as a brave and dedicated fighter for his service in defending the country.

Former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Jamil Johari, praised Etin’s courage and sacrifice during his service, particularly highlighting an incident in 1972 when Etin faced a communist threat alongside Sergeant Ngalinuh Bala of the 18th Battalion, Police Field Force (PPH).

“He once faced a group of communist terrorists together with another member of the 18th Battalion, Police Field Force (PPH), Sergeant Ngalinuh Bala in a battle at Jalan Ulu Oya, Sibu in 1972,” Jamil recounted at the Kuching Civic Centre on Thursday (June 6), following a tribute to Etin, attended by Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Jamil reflected on the incident from April 29, 1972, when Etin, then a Constable with the 18th Battalion of the Police Field Force (PFF), Miri, and four other members, including a Corporal, were ambushed by a group of communist terrorists while accompanying a Public Works Department team transporting explosives for rock-breaking activities.

See also  Car crash claims life, hurts two

Traversing a dense forest area along the winding road from Mile 30 to Mile 43 Oya Road, Etin and his team were ambushed.

In the ensuing shootout, disregarding their own safety, Etin and Ngalinuh Bala charged the enemy’s stronghold, managing to kill one of the communists. Their bravery caused the remaining attackers to flee.

“Realising the bravery and fighting spirit of the security personnel, the communist terrorists were fearful and ran away,” Jamil said.

“They are real heroes, and we appreciate the efforts made by the Sarawak government for giving recognition to the deceased and other Sarawak heroes over the years.

“Particular appreciation goes to Tun Wan Junaidi who has always appreciated our officers.”

Both Etin and Ngalinuh were recipients of the Darjah Kebesaran Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa (SP) bravery award.

Etin passed away at Miri Hospital due to lung cancer on Tuesday (June 4).

Download from Apple Store or Play Store.