Late Awang Raweng, one of Sarawak's finest soldiers - Uggah

The late Datuk Awang Raweng, who died yesterday, was one of Sarawak's finest soldiers and will always be remembered as a legendary figure in Sarawak's modern history.

Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said Awang's passing at the age of 104 would be deeply felt by all Sarawakians.

"He was the epitome of sheer dedication to duty and responsibility, blended with uncommon valour," he said in a statement today.

According to him, Awang, the only Malaysian ever awarded the George Cross Medal, Britain's highest civil award for bravery as recorded in the London Gazette on November 20, 1951, served as an inspiration for Sarawakians in facing their own adversaries.

"His dedication and bravery had brought great honour to the state and the country," he said.

Uggah said it was most fitting that Awang would be given a state funeral and laid to rest with Sarawak's brave warriors at the Kuching Heroes' Cemetery on Monday.

"All Sarawakians share the grief of his family members. On behalf of all, I would like to express our deepest condolences to them too," he added.

-- BERNAMA