Tun Dr Ling Devoted Much Of His Life To The Nation - Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, April 5 (Bernama) -- Transport Minister Anthony Loke today expressed condolences over the passing of former Transport Minister Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, describing him as a leader who devoted much of his life to serving the nation.

Loke noted that Dr Ling, who served as Malaysia’s longest-serving Transport Minister from 1986 to 2003, laid key foundations for the country’s transport infrastructure, including the development of Westport and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP).

“Westport, which forms part of Port Klang alongside Northport, was developed during Tun Ling’s tenure and has since grown into one of the world’s major transhipment hubs and among the most important container ports globally.

“PTP, which was also developed under his leadership, has likewise evolved into one of the leading ports in the world,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Loke, who is DAP Secretary-General, added that the development of Kuala Lumpur International Airport was initiated during Dr Ling’s tenure and continues to serve as the nation’s primary aviation gateway.

Recalling his last visit to Dr Ling, which was on Nov 4 last year, Loke described it as a deeply moving moment that reflected the late leader’s enduring pride in his contributions to the nation.

Loke said he had presented Dr Ling with a commemorative photograph of Westport in recognition of Port Klang being ranked among the world's top 10 busiest ports.

“Due to his health condition at the time, he was unable to express himself in words. Nevertheless, his expression and tears reflected a deep sense of pride in what had been built under his leadership,” he said.

Despite political differences, Loke said he had always held Ling in high regard for his resilience and lasting contributions to Malaysia’s transportation system.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Transport, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace, and may his legacy of service continue to inspire us all,” he said.

Dr Ling died yesterday at the age of 82, leaving behind his wife, Toh Puan Ong Ee Nah, and two sons, Ling Hee Leong and Ling Hee Keat.

The former MCA president, who also served as its lifetime honorary president, was among Malaysia’s longest-serving Cabinet members, having helmed the Transport Ministry for 17 years from 1986 until his resignation in 2003.

-- BERNAMA