PETALING JAYA: Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik was a soft-spoken yet firm leader who played a pivotal role in Malaysia’s development during his long tenure in government, says Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.
Wong, a former Star Media Group adviser, said Dr Ling’s contributions as Transport Minister from 1986 to 2003 were instrumental in transforming the country’s infrastructure and positioning Malaysia on the global stage.
“He oversaw the construction of Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the development of Port Klang and its emergence as a global player,” he said.
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Recalling his years as a journalist covering Dr Ling, Wong said he had the privilege of observing the former MCA president up close.
“Despite holding many senior positions, he was always approachable and even opened his home to reporters who covered him,” he said.
Wong also highlighted Dr Ling’s role in education, noting that he was deeply involved in the establishment of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), including efforts to raise funds for the institution.
As MCA president, Wong said Dr Ling travelled extensively across the country to engage with grassroots members and strengthen the party.
Beyond politics, he described Dr Ling as someone with a love for music, particularly the classic song Que Sera Sera.
“He loved singing, and that was one of his favourite songs,” he added.
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Wong also pointed out a lesser-known chapter of Dr Ling’s career, when he served as acting Prime Minister for about 10 days from Feb 4 to Feb 13, 1988.
He said this occurred when the prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his deputy, Tun Ghafar Baba, were both overseas on official duties.
“In such situations, a senior Cabinet minister is appointed to carry out the responsibilities of the Prime Minister, and Dr Ling, who was then Transport Minister, was entrusted with the role,” he said.
Earlier, it was reported that Dr Ling had passed away peacefully. He was 82
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.
