KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg jas described the passing of former Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Datuk Patinggi Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng as a great loss to the state.
He said Tun Salahuddin was a prominent warrior during the formation of Malaysia as he was a leader interviewed by the Cobbold Commission at the time.
“Tun was also then appointed as the Head of State twice and this shows his figure as a leader who has united the people in Sarawak that are of various races and religion.
“Apart from that, due to his advice and leadership, we are able to enjoy what we have today.
“Therefore, the passing of the ‘anak Sarawak’ is a great loss to the State,” he told reporters after paying his last respects to the late Tun Salahuddin at Masjid Jamek in Petra Jaya on Saturday (Jan 29).
Abang Johari added that he has had the opportunity to serve as a minister under Tun Salahuddin’s leadership.
A lot of advice was given to us, such as how we should defend our state so that our state is peaceful and prosperous, he said.
The Chief Minister extended his condolences to family of the late Tun Salahuddin.
Earlier, Tun Salahuddin’s remains was taken to Masjid Jamek in Petra Jaya at 10.30pm on Saturday (Jan 29) for funeral prayers, and was laid to rest at the Samariang Muslim Cemetery after noon prayers.
Tun Salahuddin, 100, breathed his last at Normah Specialist Medical Center here, at 11.45pm on Friday (Jan 28).
