PETALING JAYA: Tributes and condolences have poured in from Sabah and Sarawak leaders following the passing of former Sarawak governor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud.
Deputy Sarawak Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the state has lost another great figure in the political arena.
“Taib was my late father’s political partner, chief of his Cabinet, a family friend and Sarawak Heart Foundation chairman.
“Thirty-three years of Tun’s chief ministership resulted in not just political stability but social and religious harmony in Sarawak.
“Thanks for all your contributions to Sarawak, Tun,” he said in a Facebook post.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who is also Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu Sarawak (PBB) secretary-general, said behind Taib’s strict style of leadership, he was also a generous leader who cared about the well-being of the people, especially in Sarawak.
“Personally, I was touched by his concern when, during his final year as Sarawak Chief Minister, he asked me if there was anything he could do to help my constituency in Kapit, without me asking first.
“He was a generous man and he did not forget those who were with him,” Nanta said when interviewed on Bernama Radio.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said Sarawak has lost a political icon who has contributed immensely to the state’s development.
In expressing his condolences, he said Taib had done a lot in bringing change for Sarawak.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said Taib will be remembered as a leader who set the best example in maintaining unity as well as pioneering the way for women to have a voice in politics.
“I was one of those (women) trained by him, that’s why we are very saddened by his demise,” said the Wanita PBB vice-chief.
Nancy started her political career in 2008 as Member of Parliament for Batang Sadong and then for Santubong since 2022.
Former Sabah chief minister Tan Sri Musa Aman said he had the opportunity to work with Taib.
“He was a true statesman and a far-sighted leader who took Sarawak out of the backwaters and turned it into a progressive and economically vibrant state, which consequently spurred its socio economic development and elevated the people’s standard of living,” said Musa in his condolence message.
Both Musa and Taib were the longest serving chief ministers of their respective states.
