PETALING JAYA: MCA secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon paid tribute to former party president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, describing him as “a giant in the hearts of many.”
He noted that Ling's 18-year leadership of MCA began when the party was deeply divided, yet Ling managed to steady it with patience and quiet authority.
Chong said that at the core of Tun Ling’s legacy was an unwavering belief in education. As the driving force behind Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), formerly known as Tunku Abdul Rahman College, he helped build an institution that has opened doors for generations of Malaysians.
“For many of us who were students then, TAR was synonymous with Tun Ling. His insistence on quality has borne fruit, and today we see how it continues to uplift lives,” he said.
Even before Chong entered politics, Tun Ling was closely associated with fundraising for TAR institutions, from major campaigns to grassroots efforts that brought communities together.
Beyond education, he also left a clear mark on national development during his tenure as Transport Minister, particularly through the rapid expansion of Port Klang into one of the country’s key economic gateways.
Chong recalled a brief but lasting encounter in 2013, soon after he became MCA Youth chief. At a Chinese New Year gathering in Klang, Tun Ling — long retired by then — spotted him across the room, called him over and addressed him by name, even though they had barely met. “That was the kind of mind he had — sharp, attentive, extraordinary,” Chong said.
He said Tun Ling’s memory and attentiveness reflected a leader who focused not only on issues but on people, helping him bridge divides within the party. Even in retirement, Tun Ling remained quietly engaged, especially on education, though he kept largely out of the public eye after handing over the presidency in 2003. He made his final public appearance to receive an honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Business from TAR UMT, in recognition of his leadership and contributions.
Chong also thanked Tun Ling’s wife, Toh Puan Eng Ee Nah, and their family for their steadfast care, ensuring he could still meet old friends when his condition allowed.
“In politics, we often speak of strength in numbers or strategy. But Tun Ling showed us that true leadership lies in patience, clarity of mind and sincerity towards people. He was not just a leader of MCA, but a nation builder — and his legacy will endure,” he said.
