By Tengku Noor Shamsiah Tengku Abdullah
Malaysia today mourns the loss of one of its most gracious and humble leaders. Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the country’s fifth Prime Minister and a statesman known for his integrity, calm strength, and compassion, passed away peacefully at 7:10 PM on April 14, 2025, at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur.
He was 85. His passing was confirmed by his son-in-law, former Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
Known affectionately as “Pak Lah”, Tun Abdullah steered the nation from 2003 to 2009 through a time of transition, following the long premiership of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. His leadership ushered in a new tone of governance — rooted in moderation, inclusivity, and consensus — that stood in contrast to the more combative politics of the time.
Tun Abdullah believed in leading by listening. He was not one to seek the spotlight, but his sincerity and moral compass quietly commanded it.
His vision of “Islam Hadhari”, a progressive and inclusive interpretation of Islam, gained global recognition.
At home, he sought to address corruption, enhance governance through the National Integrity Plan, and modernise the civil service.
To many of us in the press, he was more than a politician — he was a rare leader who treated journalists with warmth and respect. I had the privilege of covering Putrajaya when Tun Abdullah was in office, and one memory remains etched in my heart.
In 2008, following the general election where Barisan Nasional lost five states and its two-thirds majority in Parliament, speculation swirled about his resignation.
At a time when the political air was heavy with uncertainty, I had the opportunity to break the story — scooping the mainstream media — when Pak Lah calmly clarified he would not step down, at least not just yet.
He didn’t shun the questions; instead, he answered them with dignity, always smiling, always respectful.
Even after stepping down as Prime Minister in 2009, Tun Abdullah remained dedicated to national development.
As adviser to Corridor Development Malaysia, he led the East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) on key investment missions. I still remember covering his visit to the Gulf, namely Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Jeddah in May 2009.
There, amidst high-stakes meetings, he remained the same gracious figure: approachable, insightful, and deeply committed to Malaysia’s future.
Those who knew him, even briefly, will tell you the same: Pak Lah was a gentleman. He embodied humility in power, and dignity in retirement. He governed not with rhetoric, but with responsibility. Not with division, but with dialogue.
His passing leaves a profound void in our national fabric. Yet, his legacy, one of moderation, compassion, and integrity will live on.
In a world where loudness often masquerades as strength, Tun Abdullah reminded us that quiet leadership can move nations.
He will be laid to rest at the Warriors’ Mausoleum (Makam Pahlawan) at Masjid Negara, Kuala Lumpur, on Tuesday.
As Malaysians from every background pay their final respects, we remember a leader who led with his heart and humanity.
May Allah SWT grant him eternal peace and place him among the righteous.
Al-Fatihah.
–WE