KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang paid their last respects to the late Puan Sri Datin Sri Elizabeth Pawa Edwin Ruggis at her residence today (Oct 7).
Elizabeth was the wife of the late Tan Sri Celestine Ujang Jilan, a former Sarawak state minister and former Speaker of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly.
Abang Johari and Juma’ani arrived at the residence in Lorong Urat Mata 1, Tabuan Jaya on Monday at around 3.30pm and spent about 30 minutes offering condolences and support to the family.
Speaking to reporters after paying his last respects, the Premier expressed his condolences to the family of the late Elizabeth.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Puan Sri. As you know, we were acquainted with the late Tan Sri Celestine, who was our youth leader (of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) then, and I was his deputy.
“We were very close, along with Puan Sri — just like family friends. Today, we visited the family and offered our condolences to the family.
“I hope the family finds strength during this difficult time, and we pray for her soul to rest in peace,” he said.
The late Elizabeth was also the mother-in-law of Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
In a heartfelt announcement on his Facebook post, Nanta shared that Elizabeth, aged 76, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday (Oct 6) at 9.55am.
Elizabeth leaves behind three daughters, Malvina Maria Ujang, Datin Sri Angelina Ujang and Dr Priscilla Midah Ujang. Her second daughter, Angelina, is the wife of Nanta.
Meanwhile, the wake will be at the residence on Oct 8 at 7pm, and the funeral mass will be held at St Joseph’s Cathedral at 9.30 am and burial thereafter at the Nirvana Memorial Park, Kuching-Bau Road, Siniawan.
