YESTERDAY, February 21, 2024, was a solemn day for both Sarawakians and Malaysians. It marked the departure of a cherished figure, the driving force behind Sarawak’s modernisation and a beloved native son.
Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s enduring influence as the former Head of State (from March 2014 to January 2024) and Sarawak’s longest-serving chief minister, spanning a remarkable 33 years, highlights his indispensable contribution to the state’s progress.
Known informally as Pak Uban, meaning “White-haired Uncle” or “Pek Moh” among the Chinese-speaking community, his visionary leadership propelled Sarawak into a new era of prosperity and development. Under his guidance, significant advancements were made in infrastructure, education, and industry.
His unwavering commitment to the well-being of Sarawakians reached every corner of the state, even the most remote communities. Before his tenure as chief minister, Sarawak was considered one of the poorest regions in the country.
Beyond his role as a statesman, Abdul Taib was a compassionate advocate for social justice, championing initiatives to uplift marginalised and disadvantaged individuals. His tireless efforts to bridge divides and foster unity strengthened the social fabric of Sarawak, creating a sense of belonging and solidarity among its diverse populace.
Abdul Taib, born on May 21, 1936, in Kampung Sungeu Merbau, Miri to Mahmud Abang Yahya and Hamidah Yakub, earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Adelaide in South Australia in 1960. He became the chief minister of Sarawak at the age of 45.
At the age of 27, before becoming chief minister, he served as the Minister of Communication and Works in 1963 under the Cabinet of the first Chief Minister of Sarawak, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan. This made him the youngest individual ever sworn in as a state minister in Sarawak’s political history. In 1966, he was appointed as the Minister of Development and Forestry.
He also held the position of Member of Parliament for 38 years, making him one of the longest-serving parliamentarians in Malaysia.
On February 12, 2014, he submitted his resignation letter as chief minister and was subsequently appointed as the 7th Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara on February 28.
Abdul Taib married Datuk Amar Laila Taib in 1959. She passed away in 2009 due to cancer. They had four children: Jamilah Hamidah Taib, Datuk Seri Mahmud Abu Bekir Taib, Datuk Seri Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib, and Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib. On December 18, 2010, at the age of 74, he married his current wife, Toh Puan Ragad Kurdi Taib.
He passed away at 4.40 am in a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur at the age of 87.
Abdul Taib’s dedication truly transformed the landscape of our beloved state and left an indelible mark on the hearts of its people.
His legacy, a testament to his pivotal role in shaping Sarawak’s infrastructure, economic development, and political landscape, will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light, inspiring future generations.
As we reflect on his life and legacy, let us honour his memory by continuing the work he started, striving for excellence, and upholding the values of integrity, compassion, and inclusivity that he embodied.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched and the enduring impact of his contributions to Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the New Sarawak Tribune.
