KUCHING: The late Datuk Sgt Awang Raweng’s contribution and sacrifices during the emergency period against the communists in 1951 proved that ‘anak Sarawak’ (Sarawakians) had been helping Malaya even before the formation of Malaysia.
Former Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang said the late Awang was among Sarawakians who did not hesitate to answer the call from Malaya which was requesting assistance to help the Commonwealth Forces fight the communists.
“At a very young age, he went over as an Iban tracker and joined the Worchestershire Regiment in fighting the communists.
“Despite being outnumbered, Awang, without fearing for his life, saved a British soldier and was wounded in the process.
“But typical of an ‘anak Sarawak’ who lives by the ‘agi idup agi ngelaban’ (Fight until death) motto and ‘anang takut, anang surut ke munsuh’ (don’t fear and surrender to the enemy), he fought on and victoriously won the battle in spite being outnumbered.
“This is the very thing we must remember — that we have been helping Malaya even before the formation of Malaysia and that we care for the security of this region,” Jabu told reporters at Awang’s final tribute ceremony held at Kuching Civic Centre here on Sunday (Sept 20).
The former deputy chief minister also thanked everyone who had been taking care of the necessary arrangements for Awang’s departure.
Jabu further described Awang as a good and loyal friend.
“In 1989, when I was the responsible minister for the reburial of Panglima Rentap’s remains at Bukit Sibau, I invited Awang as one of the Iban celebrants alongside Menggong Pangit, Tan Sri Datuk Gerunsin Lembat, Datuk Seri Peter Tinggom and Datuk Kanang Langkau.
“When we did the replica of Bujang Timpang Berang cannon at Bukit Sadok, I also invited him there. And because of the distance, I took the privilege of sending him back to his longhouse by helicopter.
“In fact, we were very happy when he was awarded the Datukship in 2018. I was partly responsible for recommending him for the title in return of his sacrifices to the nation,” he added.
Jabu expressed his sadness at Awang’s passing.
“We wish his family good health,” he added.
