KUCHING: Malaysia has lost an eminent statesman with the passing of former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Monday (April 14), says Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
According to him, Abdullah served the nation with dedication, civility, and leadership principles based on moral values.
"Throughout his tenure as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, Abdullah introduced various policies and approaches which brought big changes to the nation.
"Among his most important contributions was introducing the Islam Hadhari concept, which emphasised the holistic development of the Muslim community by balancing spiritual and physical progress.
"This approach strengthened Malaysia's image as a progressive and moderate Islamic country in the eyes of the world," Wan Junaidi said on his official Facebook page.
He said Abdullah also emphasised good governance, human development, and tolerance among races and religions.
"His moderate, people-centred, and highly principled character is an example for current and future leaders to emulate," he added.
Wan Junaidi and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi also conveyed their condolences to Abdullah's family.
