SARAWAK ORDER PROBE ON MYSTERIOUS DEATH OF YOUTH PLAYER

KUCHING, Feb 16, 2009 (Bernama) - The state government has directed the Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) to submit a full report on the death of Rojes Enoos, 18, who died under mysterious circumstances while representing the state in an Under-19 national youth tournament on July 5, last year.

Sarawak Social Development and Urbanisation Minister Datuk Seri William Mawan said the full report must include a post-mortem report conducted by a medical officer.

"I have not received a full report (on Rojes' death) or a post- mortem report yet. However, we will look into the matter seriously," he told reporters after presenting the Anugerah Tokoh Wanita 2008 award to Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) President, Datuk Ursula Thomas Dunpangol here today.

Though he did not indicate a definite time for the submission of the report, Mawan said the ministry would take the necessary action based on the report received from FAS, including the possibility of compensation to the family.

"This is an unprecedented incident. We must listen to both sides of the story. If there was any way we can show our compassion we will look into it," he said.

A local daily reported today that the parents of Rojes, who had also represented the country in Under-12 international tournaments several years ago, wanted a full report from the FAS to determine the cause of their son's death, in order to end speculations surrounding his death.

The parents had also requested FAS to take full responsibility for their son's death as he was on duty for the state and urged the association to look into compensation for his death.