Nation Mourns Tun Abdullah Badawi, Lauded as a True Democrat

KUALA LUMPUR 15 April 2025 - The Deputy Minister of MITI and MP for Iskandar Puteri, Liew Chin Tong  expressed profound condolences to the family of the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, describing him as a rare and honorable figure in Malaysian politics.

Credit Photo : Liew Chin Tong FB Page

Taking office as Prime Minister in October 2003, Abdullah, affectionately known as Pak Lah, sparked hope for an end to authoritarian rule, ushering in a new era of openness. However, he faced challenges in uniting conflicting forces during his tenure.

Chin Tong hailed Pak Lah as a democrat who upheld the people’s will, notably during the 2008 general election when Barisan Nasional lost its two-thirds majority and five states.

Despite pressures to impose emergency rule, Pak Lah rejected such measures, honoring the democratic process.

“Future generations of Malaysians will remember Pak Lah as a good man and a true democrat,” said Chin Tong. “Takziah to his family.”