By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, MAY 13: Datin Ho May Ling delivered a delivered a heartfelt eulogy, expressing gratitude to various individuals and entities, at the funeral of her late husband, Senate President Datuk Mutang Tagal at BEM Church Canada Hill.
She thanked God for granting Mutang the opportunity to serve as Senate President and for being by his side during his treatment.
She expressed appreciation to the Sarawak and Malaysian governments, as well as to Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for their support during Mutang’s illness.
She also extended her gratitude to the Azerbaijani government for their assistance in medical evacuation.
“I’m eternally indebted to the Azerbaijan government, both Malaysia and Sarawak governments for helping us to secure my husband’s safe return to Malaysia,” she said.
Additionally, she thanked Senator Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Anifah Aman and all those involved in securing Mutang’s return to Malaysia.
Ho acknowledged the efforts of all agencies involved in the funeral arrangements and expressed her belief that Mutang is now in God’s loving hands.
She concluded by thanking her family for their support and acknowledging the upbringing provided by her in-laws.
“I thank my father-in-law and my late mother-in-law for bringing up a fine loving husband and thank my children for your support,” she said.
Mutang’s father, Tagal Paran, 91, expressed gratitude to those present for their love and support, emphasising their presence as a testament to their affection for his son.
Despite the sorrow of losing two sons—Mutang and Tagal’s eldest son Dr Judson Sakai Tagal in 2004 during a helicopter crash incident at the foot of Mount Murud—who were serving the government, Tagal acknowledged the inevitability of death as stated in the Bible.
He noted that both sons had passed away while dedicatedly serving the government, a fact that added to the weight of their sacrifice and service.
He thanked everyone for their assistance and extended appreciation to the Malaysian and Sarawak governments for appointing Mutang as Senate President, a position that surprised him but brought joy and pride to the family.
Reflecting on Mutang’s life, Tagal acknowledged God’s hand in uplifting his son’s status and ultimately accepted his fate with resignation and faith.
Mutang’s three children also delivered poignant eulogies, offering touching insights into their father’s life and legacy.
In an emotional tribute, Mutang’s eldest son, Rining, 40, described his father as the epitome of paternal love and spousal dedication, stating, “He was the best father, (and an) incredible dad and husband.”
Saran, 36, who is Mutang’s only daughter, expressed gratitude for the widespread recognition their father enjoyed, emphasising his commitment to education as a cornerstone of their upbringing.
“Dad was blessed that so many people knew him. Like all classic Asian families, he emphasised education for us, knowing it would open doors,” Saran said.
Reflecting on her father’s unwavering support, Saran shared how Mutang initially struggled with her decision to leave legal practice but eventually embraced and endorsed her efforts to assist refugees.
She also fondly recalled Mutang’s generosity and kindness, particularly citing instances where his father offered legal aid pro bono.
Meanwhile, Bian, 35, the youngest among Mutang’s children, reminisced about his father’s protective nature, recounting a childhood incident involving a centipede.
Bian also cherished his father’s approval of his wife, Caroline, highlighting Mutang’s discerning judgment and warmth towards family.
The late Mutang was laid to rest at Golden Memorial Park (Fairy Memorial Park) in Lambir, around 2.17pm today (Monday).
He was leading a Malaysian delegation at the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan before he fell ill.
His official visit to Azerbaijan on April 29 was cut short for medical treatment. He returned to Kuala Lumpur from Azerbaijan at 1am on May 6 and was rushed to hospital.
Mutang, 70, passed away at National Heart Institute Kuala Lumpur (IJN) on May 10 (Friday), at 11.46am. — DayakDaily
