In grieving for Taib, Sarawakians reflect on his legacy for the state

KUCHING (Feb 22): As the state mourns the loss of Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, Sarawakians have reflected on his legacy for the state.

Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS) manager Roslin Latip said Taib was dedicated to promoting unity among Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups.

“Tun Pehin Sri successfully united approximately 28 ethnic groups in Sarawak, fostering a climate of peace and unity that endures to this day,” she told The Borneo Post after paying her last respects at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Complex here this morning.

Lt Col (Rtd) Fabian Wong said Taib played a significant role in Sarawak’s development.

“His greatest contribution was safeguarding and protecting Sarawak for its people. His love for the people came first,” he said.

Angkatan Zaman Mansang (Azam) Sarawak chairman Datu William Patrick Nyigor lauded Taib’s visionary approach in establishing Azam 41 years ago.

“It was a groundbreaking initiative aimed at driving development communication and fostering collaboration between the government and NGOs,” he said.

Sister Rose Wong, Superior General of the Sisters of St Francis of Sarawak (SSFS), described Taib as a respected and generous figure.

“His support for the church and his calm demeanour earned him widespread admiration,” she said.

Mohamad Julaihi Johan, a resident of Kampung Teh Oya, Dalat, fondly recalled Taib’s approachability and principled leadership, as well as his unwavering commitment to Sarawak’s development despite challenges.

“I will always remember his advice to not divide, we must unite Sarawak with the Federation (of Malaysia), especially because in over 30 years it has been crucial for him to unite the people, so hopefully this will continue.

“His departure is something very sad but what can we do, time passes for all of us, so he has sacrificed a lot of time for Sarawak, especially Malaysia in its beginnings,” he said.