KUCHING – The Governor of Sarawak, His Excellency Tun Pehin Sri Dr. Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, formally acknowledged the extraordinary contributions of six national heroes during the 2026 State Level Heroes’ Day Parade Ceremony.
The event, held at Dataran Perayaan in Petra Jaya, provided a dignified platform to recognise individuals who have demonstrated exceptional valour in the service of the nation.
The ceremony focused on the presentation and introduction of the recipients of the Brave Commander’s Medal, known locally as Pingat Gagah Berani (PGB).
This prestigious award is reserved for those who have displayed conspicuous courage in the face of danger, often risking their lives to protect the sovereignty and security of Malaysia.
The six recipients honoured on this occasion were Waren Officer 1 (B) Beliang son of Bali, Sergeant (B) Mereng son of Imang, Lance Corporal (B) Unggek son of Atin, Lance Corporal (B) Bajau son of Ladi, Sergeant (B) Dajai son of Anggie, and Sub Inspector (B) Mohamad bin Salim.
Each of these individuals represents a lineage of defenders who have stood firm against threats to the country’s peace and stability.
During the proceedings, Tun Pehin Sri expressed profound appreciation for the roles these officers played in safeguarding the homeland.
He highlighted that their actions were not merely duties performed but acts of holy sacrifice made in the struggle to maintain national harmony.
The governor noted that their willingness to shed blood and face enemy threats in the past has secured the peace enjoyed by citizens today.
The recognition of these veterans serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it provides long-overdue public acknowledgement of their personal sacrifices. Secondly, it establishes their stories as enduring sources of inspiration.
The governor emphasised that the service and dedication shown by these men are engraved in history, offering valuable role models for both current and future generations of Malaysians.
The atmosphere at Dataran Perayaan was one of solemn respect as the dignitaries and attendees reflected on the gravity of the awards.
The presence of high-ranking government officials and military leaders underscored the state’s commitment to honouring its defenders.
The ceremony reinforced the bond between the civilian leadership and the security forces, highlighting a shared commitment to national integrity.
Tun Pehin Sri also extended his well-wishes to the recipients and the broader community of veterans. He offered prayers that God would bestow blessings, good health, and lasting prosperity upon them.
This sentiment was echoed by the wider audience, recognising that the well-being of those who served is a matter of national importance.
The Brave Commander’s Medal is one of the highest honours for bravery in Malaysia. It is typically awarded to members of the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Malaysian Police who have performed acts of gallantry in dangerous situations.
By highlighting these specific recipients, the Sarawak government aims to keep the memory of their bravery alive in the public consciousness.
The 2026 Heroes’ Day celebration thus went beyond mere pageantry. It served as a critical reminder of the human cost of national security.
The stories of Beliang, Mereng, Unggek, Bajau, Dajai, and Mohamad are testaments to the resilience and courage required to defend the nation.
Their introduction to the governor marked a significant moment of closure and recognition for their past services.
As the ceremony concluded, the focus remained on the legacy of these heroes. Their experiences serve as a benchmark for excellence and duty.
For the younger generation, understanding the sacrifices made by these individuals provides context to the peace they inherit.
The state’s continued observance of Heroes’ Day ensures that such contributions are never forgotten, fostering a culture of gratitude and respect for uniformed services.
