Kin wants Mat Indera named freedom fighter

By G. Manimaran
Bahasa Malaysia Editor

September 07, 2011

Baharom (centre) said his family welcomed all efforts to clear its name.

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — The family of Muhammad Indera, who led the communist assault on Bukit Kepong police station six decades ago, wants the government to recognise him as a freedom fighter and not a traitor.

His brother, Baharom Shah, said Muhammad, better known as Mat Indera, had been committed to his religion and fought to free his country from the British colonialists.

“Therefore, I am certain he was a true independence fighter,” the former Army engineer told reporters today.

“I ask that the government rehabilitate the name of Mat Indera, who has been labelled a traitor to the nation. The history of our independence struggle needs to be re-examined.”

Speaking at the PAS headquarters, Baharom said he and other family members welcomed efforts by any party to clear his family’s honour and good name.

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