Tunku Abdul Rahman’s Legacy Should Be Upheld - Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 8 (Bernama) -- The legacy of the Father of Independence, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, founded on his values of humility, integrity, tolerance, and service to the people, should continue to guide the nation, said unity advocate Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

In a statement issued in conjunction with the 123rd anniversary of the birth of the country’s first Prime Minister today, Lee said Tunku Abdul Rahman was a great statesman who built the nation on the foundations of kindness and respect.

“Tunku truly believed in nation-building. He did not see a country divided by race or religion. Instead, he saw one big family.

“He often said that our diversity was our greatest strength, not a weakness. He led with a fatherly heart and always put the happiness of the people first,” he said.

Lee, who is also the chairman of Alliance for a Safe Community, highlighted Tunku Abdul Rahman’s integrity and openness, sharing an anecdote involving a young journalist who once conducted an interview with the late leader.

“The journalist asked him a lot of questions, one after the other, without stopping. Tunku paused and looked at him with a calm smile and said: “Young man, why do you ask me so many questions? Please write whatever you like. I won't deny anything,” he said.

According to Lee, Tunku Abdul Rahman did not believe in controlling narratives or concealing facts, noting that he trusted journalists and was secure in who he was and what he stood for.

He said the former prime minister would forever be remembered as the leader who led the nation peacefully to independence in 1957, guided by courage, wisdom, and an unshakeable belief in unity.

“At a time when the future of our land was uncertain, Tunku chose dialogue over division, moderation over extremism, and unity over narrow interests. His leadership laid the foundation for a sovereign, democratic, and multiracial Malaysia,” he said.

Beyond securing independence, Lee said Tunku Abdul Rahman played a vital role in nation-building by uniting people of different races, religions and cultures, guided by his belief that Malaysia’s strength lay in its diversity.

“His vision of a harmonious society, governed by the rule of law and mutual respect, remains deeply relevant today,” he said.

-- BERNAMA