Cabinet Ministers Convey Condolences Over Passing Of Tun Dr Ling

KUALA LUMPUR, April 4 (Bernama) -- Cabinet ministers conveyed their condolences to the family of former Transport Minister and MCA Life Honorary President Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, who died this morning.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, in Facebook post, described Dr Ling as a pivotal figure in national politics whose contributions will long be remembered.

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, in expressing sorrow, said his legacy would remain embedded in the nation’s development.

“His services will be remembered in the nation’s history. May he rest in peace, and may his family be granted strength during this difficult time,” he said.

Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup also paid tribute to Dr Ling’s contributions to community development and extended his heartfelt condolences to the family.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan described Dr Ling’s passing as a significant loss, particularly in efforts to strengthen unity and advance education.

Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi similarly conveyed their condolences, describing his passing as a loss to the nation.

MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong described Dr Ling as a nation builder, unifier and a visionary leader.

“Even after retiring from politics, his dedication never waned. He remained committed to advancing education, ensuring his vision endured beyond his years of service,” he said.

Meanwhile, MIC president Tan Sri S. A. Vigneswaran described him as a principled statesman whose contributions to Malaysia were significant.

Dr Ling, 82, is survived by his wife, Toh Puan Ong Ee Nah, and two sons, Ling Hee Leong and Ling Hee Keat.

He served as Transport Minister for 17 years from 1986 to 2003, making him among the longest-serving members of the Cabinet.

Meanwhile, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh also conveyed his condolences to the family of Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik.

He described the loss as deeply felt, particularly within the Chinese community.

“On behalf of the Melaka state government and its people, I express my deepest sorrow over the passing of this respected figure. His contributions and sacrifices will always be remembered,” he said in a Facebook post.

Ab Rauf said Dr Ling’s leadership as MCA president from 1986 to 2003 contributed to political stability, particularly within Barisan Nasional (BN), as well as the development of the Chinese community.

He added that Dr Ling also played a key role in modernising the country’s transport and port sectors, supporting Malaysia’s economic growth.

-- BERNAMA