PETRA JAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has arrived in the state for his two-day visit.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s first stop is the home of Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Abang Openg, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Zahid, who is also the Home Minister was accompanied by his deputy, Datuk Masir Kujat, and welcomed by Johari and his wife Datin Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang upon his arrival at Jalan Tun Patinggi Abdul Rahman Yakub here.
The Deputy Prime Minister then paid his last respect to the former Assistant Minister in Chief Minister’s Office (Islamic Affairs) Datuk Daud Abdul Rahman at his home in Laruh Skim, Jalan Matang Jaya.
Zahid had said that the passing of Daud was a great loss to the state and country.
He added that he has known Daud for a very long time and they became close due to their portfolios in the Federal and state cabinet.
“We became very close when I was the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, in charge of the Islamic affairs while he (Daud) holds the similar portfolio, representing Sarawak.
“This is how I know he was a caring leader, one who is always concerned about the welfare and education of the children in orphanages, Islamic education and other related affairs,” Zahid said.
The former Tupong assemblyman was 66 when he passed away today at Timberland Medical Centre at 4.30pm due to heart complications.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
Daud had decided to retire from politics due to health problems, and thus, did not contest in the state election last year.