PETALING JAYA: Malaysians from all walks – from royals to politicians and ordinary folk – paid their tributes to Britain’s longest-reigning monarch after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
Leading the tributes were Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, who expressed their condolences to the British royal family.
Their Majesties said Queen Elizabeth II would be remembered for her unwavering commitment to the Commonwealth, of which Malaysia is a proud member, and her efforts to promote stronger ties between Britain and Malaysia.
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will also be remembered for her dedication to the people and the government of the United Kingdom as well for her deep concern about the welfare and well-being of the people,” the Royal couple said on Facebook.
They also reminisced about their meeting with Queen Elizabeth II while attending a luncheon in Buckingham Palace on Dec 13, 2019.
The visit and the luncheon were in conjunction with their Majesties’ seven-day special visit to England from Dec 9, 2019.
Johor Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar and Permaisuri Johor Raja Zarith Sofiah Almarhum Sultan Idris Shah also expressed their condolences.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Our heartfelt and deep sympathies to the Royal Family and the people of Great Britain,” they said in a Facebook post. It was accompanied by a photo of the Sultan with Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2019.
Expressing condolences on behalf of Malaysia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said Queen Elizabeth II’s demise was a truly irreparable loss to the Commonwealth and the world.
“Her service in maintaining the good relationship of the United Kingdom and countries around the world including Malaysia is always remembered and appreciated,” said Ismail Sabri.
“I hope the royal family and the people continue to be strong in facing this challenge.”
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the Queen’s passing brings a great sadness to millions of people in the world.
“To the world, she was Queen Elizabeth II, to her family, she was a beloved mother. She will be profoundly missed,” said Dr Wee on Facebook.
The MCA president added that the Commonwealth and the world have known few other monarchs as cherished and unforgettable as Queen Elizabeth II.
“She regarded Malaysia as a friend and partner within the realm since our independence.
“Her Majesty visited Malaysia three times in the past and we have done much in collaboration with the many governments under her long reign – from education, cultural exchanges, transport development and defence,” said Dr Wee, who also gave his best wishes to King Charles III to carry on the mantle “with strength and grace onwards”.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah said Queen Elizabeth II was “a towering figure” and led a lifetime of dedication and service.
Social worker Dr James Nayagam was one of many Malaysians who had fond memories of meeting the late Queen.
The Suriana Welfare Society chairman shared with The Star a photo of him accompanying Queen Elizabeth II in 1998 when she visited Shelter House – a centre he founded to help abused children.
