KUALA LUMPUR: The passing of former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the nation, including from Sarawak, where leaders remember him as a symbol of sincerity, inclusiveness, and quiet strength.
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, who entered politics during Abdullah Badawi’s tenure, described him as a leader who nurtured new voices in the political landscape.
“Tun Abdullah never distanced himself from young or inexperienced leaders.
“When I was first elected as Batang Sadong MP in 2008, he was already prime minister, yet he remained approachable and humble,” she said in a statement
Nancy added that it was this openness and willingness to engage that set Abdullah Badawi apart.
“He gave room for new leaders to learn and grow.
“That was his style — nurturing, not overpowering,” she added.
She credited Abdullah Badawi’s leadership with shaping a values-driven governance model, particularly through his introduction of Islam Hadhari, which she said provided a balanced path toward national progress without compromising core principles.
“He led with wisdom and gentleness, emphasizing integrity, education, and social justice — values that are still relevant today,” Nancy added.
She described Abdullah Badawi as not just as a national figure, but as a fatherly presence in Malaysian politics whose loss is deeply felt.
“His passing is a profound loss, not only for Malaysia but for those of us who were given the chance to grow under his guidance.
“May Allah SWT bless his soul and place him among the righteous. Al-Fatihah,” she said.
