MIRI (June 6): The solemn departure of the remains of Cpl (Rtd) Etin Anak Bijam, Sarawak’s last surviving recipient of the nation’s highest gallantry award, the Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa (SP), has left Miri en route to Kuching, marking the end of an era.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force Hercules 120 aircraft, bearing his body, gracefully ascended from the Miri Airport runway at approximately 9 a.m., carrying the legacy of a courageous warrior.
In a poignant procession, his casket, borne by 11 police pallbearers, was respectfully transported from his home at 8:30 a.m. to a waiting funeral parlour van. Before commencing the journey to the airport, the convoy paused briefly at the 18th Battalion General Operation Force Camp, where Etin had served with distinction prior to his retirement.
As per the Sarawak Public Communications Unit’s statement, the public has been invited to pay their final respects to Etin at the Civic Centre in Kuching from 12 noon to midnight today.
The funeral service, scheduled for tomorrow at the St Thomas’ Cathedral in Kuching, will precede the burial at the Heroes Grave, where Etin will find his eternal resting place.
Etin, aged 83, breathed his last at Miri Hospital on Tuesday after bravely battling lung cancer, leaving behind a legacy of valor and sacrifice.
This morning, among those bidding farewell to the late Etin were Miri deputy police chief Supt Sabri Zainol, Etin’s former officer Supt (Rtd) Leo Ha, and Sarawak Rurum Kelabit Association president Dato Dr Paul Raja.
Meanwhile, Etin’s eldest daughter, Linda Nacha, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Wan Dr Junaidi Tuanku Wan Jaffar, the Sarawak Government, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Royal Malaysian Air Force, and all those who offered their unwavering support during this trying period.
