KUALA LUMPUR, March 26- The cause of death of Private Muhammad Muqriz Aseri from the 20th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (20 RAMD), Sri Miri Camp, Sarawak last Monday was blunt force trauma to the chest.

The Malaysian Army (TDM) in a statement today confirming that it had received a report of the death of its member stated that blunt force trauma to the chest referred to a strong blow to the body causing damage to the heart.

According to the statement, the cause of death of Muhammad Muqriz, who was 21 years old, was based on the initial report of the autopsy conducted at the Miri Hospital yesterday.

TDM also informed that the initial investigation carried out by the team found that there was an element of 'manhandling' which is believed to be the cause of the deceased's death.

"Therefore, TDM has handed over this case to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) for further investigation and has also established an internal Board of Inquiry to identify the cause and factors that contributed to this incident," the statement said.

TDM also announced that Muhammad Muqriz's body was flown to Kuala Lumpur and safely buried at the Al-Islamiah Mosque Cemetery, Petaling Jaya at 11.55 last night.

Army Chief (PTD) General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan in the same statement announced that TDM would provide full cooperation to the authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted transparently and fairly and not compromise on the personnel found guilty.

TDM also hopes that the public will not issue any statements and speculate that could affect the investigation.

"PTD shares in the grief and expresses its condolences to the deceased's family and hopes that they will be strong with this loss," the statement said.