NATIONAL HERO SIA, 65, DIES OF INFECTION
The recipient of the nation’s highest gallantry award was known for battling communists in the 1980s
NATIONAL hero Datuk Sia Boon Chee, a recipient of the nation’s highest gallantry award, the Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa, died at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Hospital (HUKM) yesterday.
His son, Sia Yiren, 26, told the New Straits Times Press that the 65-year-old former senior police officer died at 1.50am due to an infection.
“The doctor told us that the cause of death was likely an infection. He suffered a stroke and was on the ventilator for more than two weeks. He had been admitted to HUKM since Aug 18.
“The burial will take place in Kajang on Thursday (tomorrow),” he said.
Sia is survived by his wife, Datin Chan Yoon, and his son, Yiren.
Former inspector-general of police Tan Sri Ismail Omar described Sia’s death as a huge loss to the country.
“On behalf of the police force, we would like to convey our condolences to his family. We are proud of his dedication in protecting the country.
“He was an inspiration to us as he gave his everything to the country,” he said.
Sia was conferred the SP by then Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ahmad Shah Sultan Abu Bakar on June 1, 1983.
He was once feared by the communists and was known for his excellent service in the Special Branch for battling against the communists in Perak during a series of operations.
Among them were Op Q and Op Keli from 1981 to 1983 in the Perak forest area.
He captured 43 communists in the state.