KOTA KINABALU: Army chief General Datuk Seri Ahmad Hasbullah Mohd Nawawi described the tragic death of Major Mohd Zahir Armaya, 36, as a big loss to the Armed Forces.
In confirming the 11th Special Forces Regiment Group officer's death this morning, Ahmad Hasbullah said Mohd Zahir died a martyr, and extended his condolences to his family.
"The Armed Forces are handling the funeral arrangements and taking care of the welfare (for the victim's family)," Ahmad Hasbullah said in a statement.
"The Armed Forces will establish an investigation board to identify the cause of the incident," he said.
Ahmad Hasbullah said the demonstration exercise had been carried out beginning Aug 26, stressing that this morning's tragedy during the actual demonstration was unexpected.
The demonstration was part of a programme held in conjunction with the launch of the Fifth Division of the Malaysian Infantry and the 13th Malaysian Infantry Brigade at the Lok Kawi Camp, here.
In the event, Mohd Zahir wore a white shirt and a bulletproof vest. He was also wearing face mask.
During the 8.30am demonstration, he was seen firing a shot at a group of soldiers at close range after which he turned around.
As part of the demonstration, a soldier fired a shot at Mohd Zahir. He fell on his back and two soldiers dragged him to the side.
According to members of the media who were covering the event, Mohd Zahir's colleagues checked on him but found him unconscious.
He was then rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Mohd Zahir is the son of veteran comedian AR Badul.