KUCHING, Feb 21: The passing of former Sarawak Governor, Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud at the age of 87 has left a profound void in Sarawak’s political landscape.
Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Sarawak, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, expressed her heartfelt sentiments on the loss of the esteemed leader.
“A statesman has departed, a towering leader of the nation. A leader who laid a strong foundation for unity in diversity in Sarawak, physical and human development, and empowering women,” she said in a statement, today.
Abdul Taib, breathed his last at a private hospital in Kuala Lumpur, early this morning.
The matter was confirmed by Sarawak Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Private secretary to Deputy Minister of Economy Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, Nurr Shaffique Abdul Karim also confirmed the news of Abdul Taib’s passing.
Born on May 21, 1936, Abdul Taib helmed the state as the chief minister for 33 years.
He was appointed as the seventh Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak, replacing Tun Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng on 1 March 2014, serving the post until 26 January 2024. – TVS
