Transport sector bloomed in past 17 years

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Dr Ling Liong Sik's contribution to the transport sector in the past 17 years has greatly enhanced the country's economic growth and international image, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said. 

He said Dr Ling's immeasurable contribution would be remembered by all.  

“I salute him for his services and sacrifices. His noble act by putting the interest of the party, community and country above self and also his leadership qualities are good lessons and examples for us,” he said here yesterday. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Mahathir Mohamad has accepted Dr Ling's resignation as Transport Minister yesterday.  

Ong is acting Transport Minister until Dr Mahathir appoints a new Transport Minister. 

Dr Ling resigned from the MCA president's post last Friday. The party's central committee elected Ong to succeed him the same day. 

Vice-president Datuk Chan Kong Choy was elected deputy president by the central committee to replace Datuk Seri Lim Ah Lek who stepped down together with Dr Ling. 

A Cabinet reshuffle has been anticipated following the change in the MCA leadership but Ong stressed that appointment of ministers was the Prime Minister's prerogative. 

Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn said he was saddened by Dr Ling's resignation and that his contribution would always be remembered. 

“Dr Ling's contributions is fantastic, in terms of trade and the country's modern infrastructure which make Malaysians very proud,” he said.