By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Aug 9: Former Sibuti MP Datuk Ahmad Lai Bujang was a committed and dedicated lawmaker who continued to serve the people after his retirement from politics.
Current Sibuti MP Lukanisman Awang Sauni described his predecessor as a true “people’s person”, always lending a helping hand and supporting all programmes and initiatives to develop the parliamentary constituency.
“He was unique, hard working and dedicated towards his constituency. I personally received a lot of political lesson from him.
“After his retirement, he continued to give strong support to our political struggle and often gave his advice and views,” he said when contacted.
He added that the former lawmaker had also inspired a lot of people through his words and actions to see progress in the state.
Lukanisman believed the people will always remember the service and contribution of the late Ahmad Lai.
Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) secretary-general Datuk Sebastian Ting expressed shock at the passing of the former Sibuti MP.
The Piasau assemblyman, who had known Ahmad Lai for 30 years, said Sarawak has lost an eminent politician
“His death is really an irreparable loss for the state. When he was still Sibuti MP, he continued to visit the people within his constituency despite not being well.
“He was well-received by the people,” Ting said.
Ahmad Lai, who was also Laku Management Sdn Bhd chairman, passed away early this morning aged 69 at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur.
His remains is scheduled to be flown home at 2.30pm today and expected to arrive in Miri at 4.30pm.
Prayers will be held at Kampung Luak mosque in the evening, with burial at Tanah Perkuburan Islam Baluboh, Miri.
The two-term Sibuti MP was first elected to Parliament in the 2008 general election. He left behind a wife, Datin Dayang Lily Abang Indeh and six children. — DayakDaily
