KUCHING, Feb 21: Former Sarawak Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s death represents the loss of a political strongman, according to Federation of Chinese Associations of Sarawak president Dato Richard Wee.
In a statement issued today, Wee emphasised that Taib made significant contributions to Sarawak’s economy, development, and political stability during his political career, which included 33 years as Chief Minister.
“Regarding Tun Taib’s passing, on behalf of all the directors of the Chinese Associations and the Chinese community, I would like to express my condolences to him, as well as my deep condolences to his family, and hope that they will express their condolences and care for themselves.
“We will mourn Tun Taib’s death, but we want to honour and remember him for his outstanding political contributions to Sarawak and Malaysia throughout his life,” he said.
Meanwhile, Plaza Merdeka Holdings Sdn Bhd managing director Dato Steve Ng in a statement today described Taib as a farsighted leader who was many years ahead of his time.
“It is with great sadness that we all woke up to the passing of Tun Taib. He laid the foundations of Sarawak as we know it today.
“Due to his astute guidance, Sarawak now has the ability to punch above our weight. Those early foundations he built will have positive impacts across many generations.
“He will be sorely missed by all of us, and we pray for him and his family, and may his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Taib, who served as Sarawak’s Chief Minister for over three decades, passed away at the age of 87 this morning at 4.28am at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur. — DayakDaily
