KUCHING, May 27: The late Dato Sri Daniel Tajem was an outdoors person and often went to his farm in Bayai, Sri Aman and even visited friends and constituents in Lingga, now known as Bukit Begunan, whenever he could.
His widow Datin Sri Ivy Tajem told reporters that he had always loved outdoor activities and travelling to his former constituency because he would feel bored not doing anything at home.
“After retiring from politics and from being the Malaysian High Commissioner to New Zealand in 2000, he always went outstation to meet old friends and the people at his former constituency.
“He wasn’t active in politics after retiring, but continued to advise and help out in politics a little.
“He also always went to his farm in Bayai just to exercise and sweat, otherwise he would feel bored at home. He loved the outdoors,” she said at their residence at Jalan Urat Mata here this afternoon.
Tajem for the past three days had complained of back pain, said Ivy. She also revealed that the day before, Tajem also complained of having difficulty breathing, and went to the toilet frequently.
“He didn’t have any heart problems that we know of. Only diabetes,” she added.
Ivy said she advised him to go see a doctor in the morning accompanied by their son Raymond. However without warning he passed away at around 7.10am this morning, she added.
Tajem leaves behind three children and seven grandchildren. His children are Mervyn, 50; Raymond, 47; and Angeline, 44.
The funeral service will be held at St Thomas’ Cathedral at 9am on May 30 and he will be buried at the Nirvana Memorial Park, Bau afterwards.
Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg is expected to come to the wake at 9am tomorrow.
In a short WhatsApp reply, Abang Johari said: “My deepest condolence to Dato Sri Daniel’s family.” — DayakDaily
