Honouring the legacy of national hero Michael Riman

KUCHING: The bravery and sacrifices of the late Major (Rtd) Michael Riman Bugat laid the foundation for the security and freedom that Malaysians enjoy today.

Michael Riman, recipient of Malaysia’s second highest gallantry award (PGB), passed away due to a kidney disease on Aug 7, 2023, at the age of 71 at the Sarawak General Hospital.

A solemn Grave Cementing Ceremony was held at the Heroes’ Cemetery, Taman Budaya here today to honour his service and dedication to the nation.

The ceremony was attended by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Food Industry, Commodities, and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Lt-General (Rtd) Datuk Stephen Mundaw, family members, and fellow veterans of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM).

Uggah (6th from left) during a photocall with fellow veterans and distinguished guests.

Uggah spoke highly of the late Michael Riman, describing him as a respected and humble individual with a firm commitment to his duties.

“Major Riman was not just a soldier; he was a beacon of hope; resilient with unwavering courage. In the darkest of time, when the odds were against him, he had stood firm, driven by a sense of duty and unbreakable will to protect what we hold dear.

“His valour and sacrifice formed the foundation of peace and freedom that we enjoy today.

“For the family and fellow veterans left behind, we must draw inspiration and lessons from the character and outstanding achievements of the late Major Michael Riman PGB. We must continue to contribute to the safety and development of Sarawak in any way possible,” he said.

Uggah also expressed hopes that Sarawak’s veterans will face present challenges with resilience, embodying the spirit of ‘Agi Idup, Agi Ngelaban’ (fight until the end).

Michael Riman was born on March 8, 1952, in Putus Paku, Spaoh, Saribas. He joined the ATM on Jan 23, 1973, and served in the 8th Royal Ranger Regiment.

On June 1, 1979, as part of the Platun Risik Gempur (UCIS), Corporal Michael Riman and his unit, led by Sergeant Kanang Langkau, successfully tracked enemy traces to their resting place.

In the ensuing battle, he bravely charged towards the enemy, leading his team to eliminate five communist terrorists. The confrontation claimed the life of one of his comrades, and Michael himself suffered severe injuries to his arm.

In recognition of his courage, he was awarded the Pingat Gagah Berani on June 6, 1984, by the eighth Yang di-Pertuan Agong, the late Tuanku Sultan Iskandar ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Ismail.

He retired from the ATM on March 7, 2004.