Lament for Tun Salleh

TO call you a mere “Legal Giant” is but an

Understatement; you were much more, a no-

Nonsense beacon of impeccable principles;

Distinguished by a strict adherence to the

Rule of law, justice and the Constitution.

Minion of politicians and chief executive

Officers in high places, you never were!

Holding your head up high, resolutely battling

Autocrats and their mincing cronies bent on

Making a mockery of an independent Judiciary;

Ending prematurely your tenure as Lord President

Distorting and denigrating your life and legacy.

Suffian (Tun) said, on your removal, “I was

Ashamed of being a Malaysian for the first time in my

Life” – as did all law-loving citizens who mourn your

Loss today but celebrate your rich contributions;

Exemplified by an unswerving integrity in your

Heroic defence of a then beleaguered Judiciary.

As we reminisce, remember, take stock and look

Back on your tumultuous legal journey

And the sacrifices you made for our country

Silently we salute you – Tun Dr Mohamed Salleh Abas (1929-2021).

RIP.

CECIL RAJENDRA

Penang