The late Major (retd) Michael Riman Bujat, a courageous soldier, a brother, and a friend, will be deeply missed by all for his sacrifice in fighting for the nation’s sovereignty.
Lt-Gen (retd) Datuk Seri Panglima Zaini Mohd Said described Michael Riman as a ‘kaban’ (friend in the Iban language), a brave and valiant man who served the country with distinction in both Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia during the 1970s.
“He was a brave comrade, a brother, and a friend. I am saddened by the loss of a true hero of our country. feel both sorrow and pride as he leaves us now, proud of his willingness to lay down his life in service to defend Malaysia against its enemies,” Zaini expressed while speaking to the media at the funeral ceremony on today (Aug 10).
Zaini, a Seri Panglima Gagah Perkasa (SP) recipient, shared that both Michael Riman and the late Datuk Kanang Langkau served under his command at Markas 2 Briged in Ipoh, Perak. They collaborated in military operations during the Communist Insurgency.
“It’s like losing my Iban brother, as I have a close connection with the Iban community and Sarawakians due to my time stationed here. I was posted in Sarawak in 1969 and have been to places like Sri Aman, Song, Kapit, and others,” he reminisced.
Regarding recipients of the SP medal and the Panglima Gagah Berani (PGB), Zaini explained that there are currently no more than 15 living recipients, including those in Sarawak. Only one SP recipient remains among the Malaysian Armed Forces, while the police force may still have two or three living recipients.
The PGB is Malaysia’s second highest gallantry award, coming in second only to the SP.
Only members of the military and law enforcement are eligible for the award. This award is equivalent to the British Armed Forces’ Conspicuous Gallantry Cross.
Meanwhile, the SP is the highest in the list of the Malaysian Federal Ranking of Awards, and is awarded to those who have shown “supreme courage and bravery in extraordinary and highly dangerous situations”.
The number of awards is not limited, and may be conferred to any eligible person, both civilian and military.
