KUALA LUMPUR: MCA has accorded its highest tribute to the late Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, draping the party flag over the casket of its longest-serving president in a solemn ceremony.
Party president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said the ceremony is the highest degree of honour bestowed by MCA, reserved for leaders who have made monumental contributions to both the party and the nation.
"This is to honour our former president who has contributed significantly to the party. In fact, this ceremony is the highest degree of honouring a person who has just passed away," Dr Wee said after the ceremony.
"I think he truly deserves it as the longest-serving MCA president. He has many success stories to tell the younger generation, especially in education. As the former transport minister, he was also one of the most all-rounded ministers."
He highlighted that under Dr Ling's stewardship, MCA reached its pinnacle, securing parliamentary seats and 71 state seats during the 1995 General Election.
Six top MCA leaders draped the flag n the casket, led by Dr Wee, accompanied by deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, and vice-presidents Datuk Tan Teik Cheng, Datuk Lawrence Low and Datuk Lim Ban Hong.
Dr Wee said the flag would be carefully folded and presented to Dr Ling's family as a final mark of respect and gratitude from the party.
The solemn session was witnessed by hundreds of MCA members clad in the party's official uniform.
Dr Ling, who led MCA from 1986 to 2003, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on Saturday (April 4).
The funeral service for Dr Ling will take place on Wednesday (April 8) at the centre before the cortege leaves at 11am for cremation at the Xiao En Crematorium in Nilai, Negri Sembilan.
