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PRIVATE Muhammad Muqriz Aseri, a 21-year-old soldier from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (20 RAMD), tragically passed away on Monday due to blunt trauma to the chest.
The Malaysian Army (TDM) confirmed the cause of death in a statement today, revealing that the injury had caused severe damage to his heart.
The army stated that preliminary findings from a post-mortem examination, conducted at Miri Hospital on Tuesday, confirmed the fatal impact.
The statement explained that the initial investigation by the unit uncovered indications of manhandling, which may have contributed to the soldier’s untimely death.
“As such, TDM has handed the case over to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for further investigation. Additionally, an internal Board of Inquiry has been established to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding this incident,” the statement read.
Following the post-mortem, the Muqriz’s remains of were flown to Kuala Lumpur, where he was laid to rest at the Al-Islamiah Mosque Cemetery in Petaling Jaya at 11:55 pm on Tuesday.
Army Chief, General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan assured that the army would fully cooperate with authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation.
He also stressed that no personnel found guilty of wrongdoing would be spared.
“The Army will not compromise on any personnel found guilty,” he stated. “We express our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and hope they remain strong during this difficult time.”
TDM also appealed to the public to refrain from making speculative statements that could interfere with the ongoing investigation.
It was earlier reported that the 21-year-old from Puchong, Selangor was pronounced dead at the Miri Hospital.
Sarawak Police Commissioner, Datuk Mancha Ata, confirmed the incident, but no further details were provided on the detention of any suspects.
According to sources, at about 2:15am on Monday, the victim who was sleeping in the camp's bachelor barracks was awakened by two senior members to have ‘sahur’.
However, before having the pre-dawn meal, it was said that two senior members ordered the victim to do a 'commando rest' (head on the floor, hands behind) for two minutes and 20 push-ups.
The victim, who was sweating, then stood up but fainted immediately, and the incident was subsequently reported to a Corporal who was also the head of the quarters.
The Corporal sent the soldier to Miri Hospital, but the victim was pronounced dead at 3:05am. - March 26, 2025