“May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten,”
American film writer, Julie Hébert
THE passing of Senate President Datuk Mutang Tagal has cast a shadow of sorrow over Sarawak, leaving behind a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
His sudden departure has stirred memories and reflections among those whose lives he touched, including me.
I vividly recall the shock that rippled through me upon hearing the news.
As I scrolled through my WhatsApp, my heart weighed heavy as I opened our chat, realising with a pang of disbelief that our exchanges were now mere memories.
It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of fate.
The late Mutang was not just a political figure; he was a beacon of kindness and integrity in our community.
His genuine concern for the people he served, including members of the media like myself, was evident in every interaction.
My first encounter with him remains vividly in my memory.
Back in 2021, he visited our office to meet with our chief executive officer, and his warm demeanour left a lasting impression.
After I introduced myself, the first thing he said to me was “my daughter’s name is Sarah too”.
His casual remark about sharing a name with his daughter endeared him to me, illustrating his ability to connect on a personal level despite his stature.
Over the years, I reached out to him for comments and perspectives on various matters, and he never once hesitated to lend his voice.
Despite the demands of his position and busy schedule, he always made time to engage and provide insights on current affairs.
He would respond promptly or sometimes well past midnight, displaying a commitment that went beyond mere obligation.
His sincerity and dedication were unwavering, earning my respect and admiration.
I recall the ritual of sharing the news articles featuring his insights which was a gesture he always appreciated.
His humility shone through as he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute, even as he held a physical copy of the newspaper in his hands.
It was a testament to his humility and appreciation for collaboration.
The news of his passing has left a profound impact on all who had the privilege of crossing paths with him.
My colleagues, who recently interviewed him, share in the disbelief and sadness.
Another colleague of mine expressed regret for not thanking Mutang when she received a Hari Raya greeting message from him last month.
State leaders, including Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari, have poured in tributes in memory of Mutang.
Abang Johari described him as a great leader who was fair to all the communities.
“With his passing, we have indeed lost a great and fair leader. And for us in Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Persatu (PBB), we lost a great friend,” he said.
He made these remarks during a press conference after chairing the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) Supreme Council Meeting on Saturday (May 10).
Abang Johari also recalled moments when Mutang was appointed as the Senate President.
“The late Mutang asked me, ‘benar kah (is this real) Abang Jo?’ and I told him yes – he was not expecting it.
“I told Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that even though he only served two terms as an MP, his commitment to help us in PBB, GPS as well as the Lun Bawang and Orang Ulu community has always been there.
“He was a good and fair leader to all communities and his election was due to the whole society in Malaysia having the confidence in him to be the Senate President,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala fondly recalled memories of his close friend in a heartfelt tribute.
The two shared a deep bond that traced back to their college days in the 1970s at Kolej Tuanku Haji Bujang in Tanjong Lobang, Miri.
Their friendship continued through their studies at the Faculty of Law, Universiti Malaya (UM) and it did not stop there.
“After graduation, we both ventured into the realm of banking before transitioning to legal practice, navigating our professional lives side by side,” he said.
The late Mutang’s absence leaves a void not easily filled which illustrates the legacy he leaves behind.
As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the legacy of leadership, kindness and integrity that he embodied.
Mutang may be gone but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his presence.
