KUCHING, May 27: Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) senior vice-president Datuk Paul Igai says the passing of Dato Sri Daniel Tajem marks the loss of a statesman for Sarawak.
“It is a great loss to the state which is much regrettable. Our condolences to his family.
“It is definitely a great loss to the Dayak community and Sarawak in general. He is a hard act to follow,” Paul told DayakDaily.
He said Tajem was an experienced leader and made the Dayak community proud by being the first (Iban) lawyer and the second Malaysian High Commissioner to New Zealand.
“He was a very experienced politician and had been in the government as well as being a formidable opposition (leader).
“His wide experience in politics and in government made him an outstanding leader. We will miss him, a man with that kind of experience,” said Paul.
Paul said he has known Tajem for more than 30 years, when he first entered active politics.
“He came across as an amicable and approachable leader. I have learnt a lot from him, from the way he handled politics and issues of the people and the community,” he added.
Tajem, a former deputy chief minister, passed away this morning at 7.10am at his residence at Jalan Urat Mata here. — DayakDaily
