The Malaysian soldier who tragically lost his life after being shot during a training exercise in Sarawak has been identified as Corporal Petrus Linggi Liman. Described by his cousin as an independent and resilient person, Mr. Petrus was also seen as a good friend and brother. The authorities are currently searching for the unidentified suspect responsible for his death, with local media reporting that the 29-year-old soldier was allegedly shot by a poacher. Mr. Desmond Leo Naga Janting, Mr. Petrus’s cousin, expressed shock over his death, recalling the last time they met during the Gawai Dayak festival last year.
The Gawai Dayak festival is a thanksgiving and harvest celebration, traditionally held on June 1st each year. Mr. Desmond stated that he had no idea their last meeting would be their final, further expressing his heartbreak at not being able to return to their longhouse to pay his respects. Mr. Petrus, as the only son in his family, was the hope of his family, which consisted of an elder sister and four younger sisters. He was remembered as a quiet individual with a good sense of humor, as well as being independent and strong-willed, qualities that served him well in his military career.
The Malaysian Army Command Public Relations Cell confirmed the details of the incident on September 23rd, revealing that the soldier from the 9th Brigade in Sibu was fatally shot during training. Despite receiving first aid at the scene and being rushed to a nearby health clinic and hospital, Mr. Petrus could not be saved and was pronounced dead at 7.43 am. A police report was filed following the incident, with investigations ongoing to apprehend the shooter. The Malaysian Defense Minister, Khaled Nordin, expressed his condolences to the family of the fallen soldier, urging prayers and support for them during this challenging time.
During the training exercise, Mr. Petrus and his platoon reportedly heard the sound of a motorcycle passing near their location, followed by what seemed to be a gunshot. Upon investigation, they found Mr. Petrus injured and in need of immediate medical attention. His cousin, Mr. Desmond, shared memories of their close bond since childhood and the sorrow of not being able to say goodbye properly. He highlighted Mr. Petrus’s role as the family’s sole male figure and source of hope, reflecting on his qualities of independence and resilience that enabled his Army enlistment. As the search for the suspect continues, the community mourns the loss of a beloved soldier and friend.
