PETALING JAYA: Datuk Noor Farida Ariffin, former ambassador and co-founder of the G25 group, has passed away at the age of 76.
G25 executive secretary Jasmine Zulkifli confirmed the matter when contacted, saying that she received the news on Thursday (June 27) afternoon.
"Noor Farida had been hospitalised for several weeks," said Jasmine, adding that funeral prayers will be held at Masjid Kampung Baru followed by burial at the Jalan Ampang cemetery on Thursday.
Noor Farida had a distinguished career in the civil service, serving as a judge, legal adviser and diplomat, most notably as Malaysia's ambassador to the Netherlands.
Following her retirement in 2012, Noor Farida headed the law reform committee at the National Council of Women Organisations.
She was renowned for advocating moderation and for co-founding G25, the group of prominent retired civil servants.
Bernama chairman and Star Media Group advisor Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai said he was saddened by her demise.
Describing Noor Farida as a friend and fellow moderate, he said Malaysia has lost a voice of reason and conscience.
"She would always speak up for a moderate Malaysia," he said.
Lawyer-activist Siti Kasim described Noor Farida said "a true woman of substance"
"A true woman of substance is one who never lets adversity define her, but uses it to fuel her determination.
"This poignant quote by A Woman of Substance encapsulates the strength and resilience inherent in Datuk Noor Farida Ariffin who refused to succumb to life's s challenges," she wrote in a posting on Facebook.
