Bomba K9 handler bids tearful adieu to loyal canine companion

SERIAN: Amid the bittersweet backdrop of farewells, a Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) K9 handler confronted the indescribable emotions tied to bidding adieu to his cherished and loyal canine companion.

Steven mourns Cliff’s passing.

Steven Ambu, 47, could not hold back tears after he placed Cliff, a Cadaver discipline detection dog, in his resting ground at the Serian fire station at 10am on Thursday (Jan 4).

In that moment, no words could encapsulate the profound love that had grown over the years. The goodbye was marked by a mix of sorrow and gratitude, illustrating the unique and irreplaceable place pets hold in our hearts.

The English Springer Spaniel, who served the Sarawak Bomba for nearly six years, succumbed to a tumour on Christmas Day last year.

No words could adequately convey Steven’s grief as he recounted memories of his time with Cliff.

The bond between handler and canine was evident, as Steven shared that Cliff was his first training animal upon returning to Sarawak in 2018.

“We both entered (the department) in the same year, the only difference being that I reported myself at the beginning of the year while Cliff was brought in December 2018,” he told the media.

Despite the suddenness of Cliff’s demise, Steven noted that the loyal dog showed no signs of illness or suspicion.

He added that Cliff was known for his obedience and striking presence during operations.

“Cliff loves to follow operations, positioning himself in a ready state of sitting at his fence every time he hears the fire station’s vehicle engine being turned on,” Steven fondly remembers.

Steven pouring flowers on Cliff’s resting place at Serian fire station.

Steven (second left) together with Khirudin (third left) and others sharing a moment of silence to honour Cliff, a Cadaver discipline detection dog, who succumbed to a tumour on Christmas Day last year.

He shared that Cliff’s successful and crucial operations were locating missing victims in two cases, one in Nanga Belaik Ulu Skrang and the other in Long Miri.

The canine’s remarkable achievements saved valuable time in searching for victims in challenging river areas.

Throughout his service, Cliff participated in over 10 firefighting operations, contributing significantly to the success of various missions.

Sarawak Bomba director Datuk Khirudin Drahman @ Hussaini, along with deputy director of operations Henderi Ardimansyah, paid their respects at the emotional service, acknowledging the invaluable contribution of this four-legged hero to the department.

Steven breaks down after placing Cliff into his resting ground at Serian fire station yesterday (Jan 4). Khirudin can be seen approaching Steven to comfort him.

Steven Ambu speaking to reporters after Cliff’s burial service at the Serian fire station.