Family of Malaysian hostage prays for return of Then’s remains

Malaysian hostage Bernard Then. Photo courtesy of The Star Online

KUCHING — The family of Malaysian hostage Bernard Then, who was beheaded by Abu Sayyaf gunmen, hopes that his remains will be returned as soon as possible.

“We hope the governments of Malaysia and the Philippines will expedite the search and bring back his body,” his brother, Christopher, said in a statement on Wednesday.

He said the family was informed of Bernard’s demise in Jolo, southern Philippines, on Tuesday.

“For the last 188 days we lived with hopes, yet hopelessness. With this dreaded news, we continue to pray for the repose of his soul. May he rest in peace.

“We ask that we be given the privacy to mourn his loss,” he said.

The family also thanked all relatives, friends and well-wishers for their prayers, thoughts and support during the difficult months leading to the tragic news.

“We appreciate all your help to keep us strong,” Christopher said.

Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem condemned Bernard’s murder by the Abu Sayyaf group.

“It is tragic. These murderers in the Philippines must be brought to justice,” he said, adding that the state government would look into giving assistance to the family.

Adenan also called for a minute’s silence to be observed for Bernard at the state civil service day celebration here on Wednesday.