What is 10 Second War Stories?

10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What letters can recipients put after their names?

People who earn this medal may write the letters P.G.B. after their names. These letters are short for the full name, Panglima Gagah Berani. Wearing this title is a high honor that tells everyone you showed incredible bravery in battle. It sets these heroes apart as the finest warriors in the country.

Was this medal awarded for modern overseas missions?

Yes, Malaysian soldiers have earned this medal while working for the United Nations in other countries. A famous example happened during the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993. Malaysian troops drove tanks through dangerous streets to save trapped soldiers from other nations. Their quick thinking and courage under heavy fire earned many of them this award.

Can police officers receive this award?

Yes, members of the Royal Malaysia Police can earn this medal. The award is given when officers show extreme courage while fighting against armed rebels or groups who break the law. Just like soldiers, these brave police officers risk their lives in the line of duty. They protect the country from danger and keep the people safe during violent times.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is designed as a shining silver star with five points. In the very center, you can see two traditional Malay daggers known as kris. These daggers are crossed over each other to represent the warrior spirit and strength of the owner. It is a beautiful and strong symbol of a person who fought well for their nation.

Is this medal given for non-combat acts?

No, this medal is only for soldiers and police who show extreme bravery during a fight with an enemy. It was officially created on July 29, 1960, to honor those who risk their lives in active battles. You cannot win this award for just being helpful or working hard at a regular job. It is reserved only for those who face danger directly in the field of war.

What letters can recipients put after their names?

People who earn this medal may write the letters P.G.B. after their names. These letters are short for the full name, Panglima Gagah Berani. Wearing this title is a high honor that tells everyone you showed incredible bravery in battle. It sets these heroes apart as the finest warriors in the country.

Was this medal awarded for modern overseas missions?

Yes, Malaysian soldiers have earned this medal while working for the United Nations in other countries. A famous example happened during the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia in 1993. Malaysian troops drove tanks through dangerous streets to save trapped soldiers from other nations. Their quick thinking and courage under heavy fire earned many of them this award.

Can police officers receive this award?

Yes, members of the Royal Malaysia Police can earn this medal. The award is given when officers show extreme courage while fighting against armed rebels or groups who break the law. Just like soldiers, these brave police officers risk their lives in the line of duty. They protect the country from danger and keep the people safe during violent times.

What does the medal look like?

The medal is designed as a shining silver star with five points. In the very center, you can see two traditional Malay daggers known as kris. These daggers are crossed over each other to represent the warrior spirit and strength of the owner. It is a beautiful and strong symbol of a person who fought well for their nation.

Is this medal given for non-combat acts?

No, this medal is only for soldiers and police who show extreme bravery during a fight with an enemy. It was officially created on July 29, 1960, to honor those who risk their lives in active battles. You cannot win this award for just being helpful or working hard at a regular job. It is reserved only for those who face danger directly in the field of war.

Home Library MalaysiaStar of the Commander of Valour (Panglima Gagah Berani)

Valor decoration

Star of the Commander of Valour (Panglima Gagah Berani)

This award recognizes outstanding bravery and gallantry shown when fighting against enemy forces.

Malaysia Established 1960 All servicesPrecedence: Highest pure military gallantry medal after the supreme award

Medals & Awards

Awarded For

Awarded for gallantry and extreme courage displayed in direct combat against enemy forces.

Eligibility

Members of the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Malaysia Police.

Branch

All services

Precedence

Highest pure military gallantry medal after the supreme award

Star of the Commander of Valour (Panglima Gagah Berani), Valor decoration, Malaysia medal

History

The Panglima Gagah Berani was instituted on July 29, 1960, by the first King of Malaysia. It was founded to reward brave warriors who displayed tremendous courage on the battlefield against enemy troops or armed rebels.

During conflicts like the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation and clashes with insurgents in Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, many soldiers and commandos earned this medal. It honors fierce leadership and cool thinking under enemy fire.

While the Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa is the overall highest bravery award, the Panglima Gagah Berani serves as Malaysia's primary military-focused combat valor medal. Recipients may place the letters 'P.G.B.' after their names.

Frequently Asked Questions

Used In

Indonesia-Malaysia ConfrontationCommunist Insurgency in Malaysia (Second Emergency)Battle of Mogadishu

Veterans Who Received This Award

Realistic illustration of the military medals and badges awarded to Kanang anak Langkau, including Malaysian Service Medal (Pingat Jasa Malaysia), National Sovereignty Medal (Pingat Kedaulatan Negara), Armed Forces Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Pingat Perkhidmatan Setia), Malaysian Armed Forces Order of Military Service (Darjah Kepahlawanan Angkatan Tentera), United Nations Mission Medal (Pingat Misi Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu), General Service Medal (Pingat Perkhidmatan Am), Mention in Despatches (Kepujian Perutusan Keberanian), Federation Gallantry Star (Bintang Keberanian Yang Amat Perkasa), Star of the Commander of Valour (Panglima Gagah Berani), Grand Knight of Valour (Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa), shown against a light Malaysia flag background. AI-generated illustration, not an authentic photograph.

Cold War

Malaysian Service Medal (Pingat Jasa Malaysia) National Sovereignty Medal (Pingat Kedaulatan Negara) Armed Forces Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Pingat Perkhidmatan Setia)+7

Kanang anak Langkau

Who Was Kanang Anak Langkau?

A legendary Iban tracker and the only Malaysian to receive both the Seri Pahlawan Gagah Perkasa and Panglima Gagah Berani.

Malaysia1980-02-19

Read Story

Sources

Back to Malaysia