The jungle lessons Wan Junaidi never forgot

In 1971, Sarawak governor Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar was a young police inspector leading a Jungle Squad platoon into dangerous terrain. His unit faced an ambush after arriving, resulting in two deaths and six injuries. The platoon was tasked with tracking down the assailants. On the morning of the mission, constable Jabu Ajai shared a troubling dream that would eerily come true.

As the squad approached a house, they noticed an elderly man, a woman, and five children, along with several cups of tea. The unusual amount of tea raised suspicions, leading to a search that uncovered a likely communist hideout. While the team engaged in combat, Jabu and another soldier, Merom, were killed. The young officer, Wan Junaidi, remembered the horrific sight of blood gushing from Jabu's body.

Jabu's death deeply affected another team member, Corporal Majani, who momentarily lost control and was restrained by Wan Junaidi. The incident taught Wan Junaidi the importance of distinguishing between combatants and civilians, even when anger and grief cloud judgment. Additionally, the Jungle Squad years revealed the value of understanding the customs and beliefs of the diverse people under his command, particularly the Iban and Orang Ulu communities, to effectively lead his diverse platoons.