The Datu Patinggi played a major role in the rebellion against Brunei rule in the 1830s. He surrendered at Belidah on the understanding that James Brooke would become ruler of an independent Sarawak. One of the earliest supporters of the Brooke Raj, with his contingent of volunteers Ali took part in an expedition to the upper Batang Lupar River in 1844. In an initial skirmish with seven prahus, Ali captured one and forced the others to flee. Subsequently ambushed and killed by opposition forces, together with twenty-nine of his followers, he was and is celebrated as Sarawak's earliest national hero.
13 April 2016
