Sabah’s Tuan Yang DiPertua Tun Musa Aman (second left) performing prayers after paying his last respects to the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (15 April).
KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia’s fifth prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was a dignified and principled leader who prioritised the nation’s interests and the people’s well-being above all else, says Tun Musa Aman.
Paying tribute following Abdullah's passing on Tuesday (April 15), Sabah’s Tuan Yang di-Pertua described the late leader, fondly known as Pak Lah, as someone who led with sincerity, humility and quiet strength.
“He preferred quiet diplomacy over political grandstanding. Even in the face of challenges, he always put Malaysia and its people first,” Musa said after paying his last respects at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (April 15).
Sabah’s Tuan Yang DiPertua Tun Musa Aman (right) expressing his condolences to Pak Lah’s son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, after paying his last respects at the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday (15 April).
Recalling his time working with Pak Lah during the 11th General Election, which saw Barisan Nasional secure a historic mandate, Musa noted that Abdullah’s calm and approachable nature earned him deep respect across all levels of society.
“I remember, as Sabah chief minister at the time, he had just taken over the country’s leadership and went on to achieve a landmark victory.
"Despite facing certain issues and challenges during his administration, he consistently prioritised the nation’s interests and the people’s welfare.
“He was a true statesman who embodied what it meant to serve with honour and humility,” the former chief minister added.
Tun Abdullah passed away at the age of 85 on Monday (April 14) after battling illness in recent years.
