BY NURA V LORNA, NOOR SYAHHIRA HADY & JAMES WONG
INDIVIDUALS from various walks of life in Sarawak expressed sorrow and reverence for the legacy left behind by their revered leader, the late former Sarawak Governor Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud,.
Sentiments of loss and admiration echoed throughout the community. His tenure as Chief Minister and Governor of Sarawak spanned decades, during which he spearheaded numerous development initiatives, earning him the title of Father of Sarawak’s Modernisation.
His inclusive leadership, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of all Sarawakians are remembered fondly by those whose lives he touched.
As Sarawak mourns the passing of this remarkable statesman, his contributions and legacy continue to inspire gratitude and reflection across generations.
Lanchong Angking, 53, civil servant
“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Tun Taib’s passing. I have been in service for over 20 years, while Tun was still Chief Minister and later Governor. His departure is deeply felt in my heart. We have lost a highly respected leader.”
Nur Rafikah Rosli, 33, is a civil servant
“I feel deeply affected by Tun Taib’s passing. I grew up watching him at a young age. Now, as a civil servant, witnessing the development he brought to Sarawak, I feel it’s a significant loss for the people of Sarawak.”
Hamadi Matnor, 37, civil servant
“I’m deeply saddened by Tun Taib’s passing at 87. I had the privilege of working for him from 2009 to 2011, observing his kindness and dedication first-hand. He treated everyone equally regardless of ethnicity, always listening to the concerns of the Dayak, Chinese, Malay, and others. Tun Taib was a tireless leader, constantly working for the betterment of Sarawak. He once told me that he would continue to fight poverty in Sarawak as long as he lived.”
Datuk Fabian Wong, 80, army veteran
“Tun Taib is a really outstanding person in Sarawak. He has governed Sarawak for many years and has led Sarawak to a modern state as it is now. Everyone can see that he has done great things for Sarawak, and it is a big loss for Sarawak with his passing. As a great politician and statesman, he has safeguarded Sarawak from outsiders that may harm Sarawak. And all these, he did it for his love for Sarawak and the people.”
Hamsiah Ali Hasan, 67, retiree
“He rendered great services, and what stands out most to me is his visits to us via helicopter. I’ve known him since I was 10 years old. Back then, I lived in Kampung Asajaya and frequently met him there. He was a good person. He served as a minister there, and that’s how I got to know him. His contributions are too numerous to count. Now, I have over 40 grandchildren.”
Morshidi Embi, 73, retiree
“Tun Taib has devoted himself to Sarawak for over 60 years, and his passing today is indeed a great loss for us all. Since he held the position of Chief Minister, he did all he could to modernise Sarawak. The title of ‘Bapa Pemodenan Sarawak’ fits him perfectly.”
