KUALA LUMPUR: Condolences have poured in following the passing of former Sarawak governor Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud earlier today.
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim King of Malaysia and several ministers have taken to social media to express their condolences, describing his passing as a significant loss to the nation.
In a Facebook post, His Majesty conveyed his condolences.
Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof highlighted Taib's statesmanship and his substantial contributions to the development of Sarawak.
Fadillah, also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, expressed sadness over Taib's passing and extended condolences to his family.
"His death is a great loss not only for Sarawak but also for the country. The deceased had also served as a minister at the federal level before returning to Sarawak.
"Ya Allah, the Almighty...forgive him," he said.
Zahid, also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, described Taib as an approachable person who consistently engaged with the community.
"(His passing) is a great loss for the people of Malaysia, especially the people of Sarawak, as he played a crucial role in governing and driving the success of Sarawak until now," Zahid said.
Taib died at 4.40am in Kuala Lumpur. He was 87.