by DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Dec 31: The late Datuk Dr Madeline Berma will be laid to rest in Sarawak, with her remains expected to be brought back to Kampung Siol Kandis, Kuching for funeral arrangements on Jan 1, 2026.
According to a report by TVS, a close relative, Datuk Kathleen Jalil, said a prayer service will be held at the late Madeline’s residence in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor, today.
“We will inform the public of the latest developments, including the appropriate time for acquaintances, friends and colleagues to come and pay their last respects,” she said when met by TVS at the residence yesterday.
Meanwhile, according to a Bernama report, her nephew, Basil Cliffton Calvert, said the late Madeline’s remains will be brought back to Sarawak for burial.
“Her remains will be taken to her residence in Kampung Siol Kandis, Kuching. Arrangements are still being finalised, but the remains are expected to be brought back tomorrow,” he told Bernama.
Basil Cliffton added that the late Madeline had been suffering from kidney disease and was undergoing dialysis treatment, although the cause of death has yet to be confirmed.
Born in 1961, Madeline was widely respected for her distinguished academic career, during which she held various positions at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). A development studies expert, her research focused on rural development, indigenous economic development and women’s empowerment.
She had received several honours in recognition of her contributions, including the Pingat Ahli Bintang Kenyalang (ABK), the Sarawak Women in Education Special Award and the Tokoh Wanita Sarawak award.
She also served on multiple research teams conducting policy-impact studies on poverty in Sarawak and major urban centres, women-related policies in Johor, and Dayak education and socialisation, and acted as a consultant to both the federal and State governments. – DayakDaily
