Photo: Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: Former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's passing is a profound loss to the nation, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said the association expresses its deepest condolences to Pak Lah's family and loved ones.
"He was a leader of integrity, humility, and wisdom.
"During his tenure as prime minister, he championed national unity, good governance, and socio-economic development through his visionary "Islam Hadhari" framework, which emphasised progressive and inclusive values.
His gentle demeanour and dedication to public service earned him immense respect, leaving an indelible mark on Malaysia’s political and social landscape," he said when contacted on Tuesday (April 15).
Pak Lah will be remembered for his soft-spoken yet firm leadership, and his efforts to promote good governance, anti-corruption reforms, and religious moderation, Lee said.
"His tenure was marked by a vision of a progressive, inclusive Malaysia rooted in compassion, integrity, and mutual respect.
"He stood up for the civil service, and upheld democratic values, ensuring a more open space for dialogue and discourse. His gentle but steady hand helped guide the nation through critical times, always putting unity and the people first," he added.
Malaysia has lost a true son of the soil, but his legacy will live on in the values he upheld and the nation he served so faithfully, he said.