KUCHING: The children and grandchildren of the late politician Donald Lawan paid a moving tribute to him, describing him as a devoted family man who had always placed importance on acquiring education.
Speaking at his funeral service held at St Faith’s Kuching Anglican Church here on today (June 15), the sixth child of Donald, Bonnie Donald Lawan, said he felt like the world had crashed on him when his father passed on.
“We have lost a very loving father, a mentor, our pillar of strength and our anchor. Throughout his life, he taught us the meaning of love, forgiveness, and serving others whenever possible,” he said, adding that his father had also stressed on having teamwork.
“My favourite quote from him was ‘teamwork divides the task but doubles the success’,” he said.
Bonnie said it was also truly amazing to witness how his father contributed to various sectors, including the economic and political fields.
“His insights and efforts made a significant impact, and I greatly respect his ventures into many businesses,” he said.
He said his father also liked to take risks, but they were always calculated risks, demonstrating his ability to balance ambition with wisdom.
“Dad also always emphasised the importance of education, professionalism, and ethics. He instilled in us a strong work ethic and a passion for learning.
“He would often say that knowledge is the most powerful tool we can process, and he made sure we understood the value of continuous learning and self-improvement,” he said.
Meanwhile, the eldest of his grandchildren, Fhilemina Melia Royuddy Abdullah@Roy Lawan in her eulogy, said her grandfather never ignored anyone who wanted to talk to him but would always take the time to sit and bond with them, to understand more about their lives so that he could help in any way he could.
“That made me feel so proud of him as it reflected a man who was very kind and generous to many. He really touched so many souls,” she said.
She said as Donald’s first grandchild, she had the privilege of experiencing many of her firsts with him.
“To most, he was a respected politician and a powerful businessman, but I have a few personal memories to share about my grandfather.
“When I was little, I asked my dad why his name was Roy. He told me that Aki (grandfather) was a huge fan of cowboy movies, especially Roy Rogers,” she said.
She added her grandfather also loved nature and animals and it had deeply influenced her and her family to have an appreciation for nature and its creatures.
“In his life, my grandfather was more than just a family man. He was a beacon of kindness and understanding.
“Today, we remember not just his deeds, but the spirit in which he lived his life – a spirit of love, compassion, and unwavering support. Let us carry forward his legacy by continuing to practice the values he instilled in us,” she said.
Another granddaughter, Crystallina Alecia Kaya said her grandfather was a visionary man who carved his own path in life with courage and determination.
“Aki began his career working with the government, a stable and respectable job, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him to leave that path and venture into the world of business. This decision was a testament to his boldness and his unwavering belief in his dreams,” she said.
She also said education was a fundamental part of her grandfather’s values.
“He believed in the power of knowledge and was always encouraging us to pursue our studies with dedication and passion. His words were not just advice but a guiding principle that has shaped our lives,” she said, adding that Donald had always provided unconditional support, guidance, encouragement, and unwavering love, regardless of the situation.
She added her grandfather’s involvement in business and politics demonstrated his commitment to making a difference in the community.
“Aki had a remarkable sense of humour. His wit was sharp, and his laughter lightened up the room.”
Jezreel Joshua Lawan, another grandson of Donald, said his grandfather was not only a hardworking man in business, but also at home.
“We also know how Aki showed love and care to everyone. But he also placed importance on education.
“I was glad he supported my decision to take a course in design… it saddened me that Aki passed away too soon, just before I completed my studies,” he said.
The last eulogy was delivered by another grandson, Elvis Adika Lawan, who said his grandfather secured a job as a public servant at an early age, and that he aimed for the skies and took big risks and entered the political service then business.
“It goes without saying that my Aki was the pillar of the family, and remained so for many decades,” he said.
He added his grandfather would make sure his children and grandchildren received education.
“The love for my grandpa cannot be put into words. My dear Aki, for all his admiring deeds and traits as a influential businessman or politician, at his core, he was fun and loving, and even a sarcastic grandpa,” he said.
He said he and his grandfather discussed a variety of things, ranging from the state’s political landscape to many others.
“Aki truly inspired me in politics. I remember telling myself that regardless of our differences in political stance in Sarawak, all of us in the end are Sarawakians.
“He is a true Dayak, Sarawakian, a loving father to his children and my dear grandpa, my Aki. I love you, Aki. Sleep well,” said Elvis.
