KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik was a visionary leader, a dedicated minister, and a trusting mentor who steered the nation’s transport sector through its most transformative years, says Melaka Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Rustam.
Expressing his deep sorrow over the passing of the former MCA president, Mohd Ali reminisced about his time serving as Deputy Transport Minister under Dr Ling, describing it as a period of immense growth and learning.
“Working under him was very comfortable. When I first became his deputy, I asked him what my specific duties were, and he simply told me to do what I felt was best.
“He gave me complete trust and a free hand to visit our air and sea transport facilities and report back to him,” he told reporters after paying his final respects to Dr Ling on Monday (April 6).
Mohd Ali, who served as deputy transport minister from 1995 to 1999, noted that Dr Ling was a hardworking minister who was constantly thinking of ways to elevate the country’s infrastructure.
This included the monumental construction of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), modernising the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and railway services, and strategising ways to attract large global vessels to Malaysian ports instead of Singapore.
He fondly recalled the teething issues during the early days of KLIA's opening, which they tackled together.
“I remember one incident where we were stuck at the aircraft door for an hour waiting for the aerobridge. Then, the baggage system jammed, and we couldn't retrieve our bags. We had to go back and come again later. Everyone was still learning the ropes back then,” he shared.
Beyond development, Mohd Ali said Dr Ling’s tenure was also marked by heavy responsibilities in managing crises, such as heavy road accident-related fatalities.
“There was a time when we were seeing up to 23 road fatalities a day. I remember the tragic incident where a bus plunged into a ravine in Genting Highlands. There was so much work to be done.
“Under his leadership, we pushed for the installation of black boxes in commercial vehicles. During the Hari Raya festive seasons, I would represent him at road safety campaigns, handing out coffee to motorists at rest and service (R&R) areas,” he said.
Despite the high-pressure environment, Mohd Ali described Dr Ling as a calm, attentive leader who rarely lost his temper.
“In meetings, he would always listen carefully and offer sound advice. He only got stern when it was necessary.
“I am deeply saddened by his passing. He was a very good and dedicated minister, a dear friend, and someone who always cared deeply about our country. He has made immense contributions to the nation,” he added.
Dr Ling, who served as Transport Minister from Sept 1986 to May 2003, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on Saturday.
