JOHOR BARU: Johor leaders have paid tribute to the late Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, noting that his countless contributions to the country will never be forgotten.
Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said he was saddened by the passing of the former MCA president, whom he described as a dedicated leader.
"Malaysia has lost a distinguished leader who served with great dedication and commitment to the nation’s development.
"His contributions and services will continue to be remembered and appreciated by all Malaysians.
"My deepest condolences to the late leader’s family and may they be given strength during this difficult time," he said in a statement on Facebook on Saturday (April 4).
Johor health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said he had been inspired by the former MCA leader from a young age and was proud to share the same surname as his idol.
"I grew up at a time when he was a minister, and I remember looking for news articles about him.
"One of the most memorable events in my life was when he visited my village in Yong Peng when I was around 10 or 12 years old.
"It was such a special moment for me, and it showed me how a leader should be," said Tian Soon, who is MCA Youth chief.
Meanwhile, Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han said Dr Ling played a significant role in shaping the country.
“I had the opportunity to meet Dr Ling several times during the Malaysia Mental Literacy Movement programmes in Johor, where he remained actively contributing even after his retirement from public office.
“He was a dedicated statesman who served the nation with distinction and played an important role in shaping Malaysia’s development.
“His leadership, humility and lifelong commitment to service will always be remembered,” he said, adding that he was saddened by the news and sent his heartfelt condolences to Dr Ling’s family.
Earlier, it was reported that Dr Ling had passed away at the age of 82 on Saturday.
His passing was confirmed in a message sent to the trustees of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, where he served as chancellor.
Born in Kuala Kangsar, Perak, the former MCA president served as Transport Minister from 1986 to 2003.
Prior to this, he held the positions of Deputy Information Minister, Deputy Finance Minister and Deputy Education Minister.
Dr Ling graduated as a medical doctor from the University of Singapore.
He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Mata Kuching in 1974 and defended the seat in the next two general elections (1978 and 1982) before winning the Labis parliamentary constituency in 1986, a seat he held for four terms.
