Tuesday March 5, 2013

ASP Michael to be buried at Heroes Grave

KUCHING: Fallen policeman ASP Michael Padel will be buried at the Heroes Grave tomorrow after a fu-neral service at St Joseph’s Cathedral.

According to Sarawak Police Commissioner DCP Datuk Acryl Sani, it was a sincere gesture from the state government in honour of the hero.

“The state government had authorised that he be buried at the Heroes Grave here around 11am on Wednesday,” he told reporters after a simple welcoming ceremony at the Police Air Base here yesterday.

When asked if it was because of pressure or request from the police and ex-police bodies, Acryl denied it.

Regarding the case of the late PGB holder ASP (Rtd) Wilfred Gomez Malong who was not buried at the Heroes Grave despite his family’s requests, Acryl said he was in no position to comment on it.

“I believe it is a sincere gesture by the state government to show appreciation to the fallen hero from Sarawak,” he said of Michael’s case.

Earlier this year, State Veterans Affairs Department called on all quarters, particularly the Opposition, to stop politicising the issue of who should be laid to rest in the Heroes Grave.

Its director Lt Col Monday Juhid said the Heroes Grave was an initiative by Lt Col (Rtd) Robert Rizal Abdullah to honour 21 fallen Iban trackers and Sarawak Rangers who gave their lives in defence of the nation but did not receive proper burial ceremony years ago.

It was believed then that decorated war hero Temenggong Kanang Langkau would be the last person to be buried there.

Kanang was the only PGB and SP holder while Gomez the youngest recipient of the PGB.

Reporters could not get hold of Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud for comments.

News

Tuesday March 5, 2013

ASP Michael to be buried at Heroes Grave