FORMER Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi died after experiencing from breathing difficulties, as confirmed by the National Heart Institute (IJN).
Datuk Dr Azmee Ghazi, head of the Cardiology Department and his attending cardiologist, reported that Abdullah was admitted to the Cardiac Care Unit at 1 am yesterday.
He noted that age played a role in his passing. "The main concern was his breathing issues, and we provided him with all possible support, including ventilation and equipment to stabilise his blood pressure.
“Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we could not save him," Dr Azmee stated at a press conference.
Earlier, IJN announced that Abdullah was placed under intensive care in the CCU, where a team of cardiac specialists monitored him closely.
Despite all medical interventions, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by family.
"IJN is deeply saddened to report the death of Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Malaysia's fifth prime minister, who died at 7:10 pm today at IJN in Kuala Lumpur.
He was admitted yesterday morning due to breathing difficulties.
Despite all medical efforts, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones," an earlier statement read.
Affectionately known as Pak Lah, the statement highlighted Abdullah's leadership, which brought calm and compassion to public service.
"The entire IJN family shares in the grief of Abdullah's loss," it continued.
IJN's CEO, Professor Datuk Sri Dr Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, expressed that caring for him in his final moments was both a privilege and an honour.
"His humility and grace left a lasting impression on many of our staff, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in eternal peace, Al-Fatihah," he said.
Additionally, Datuk Dr Azmee Ghazi, Abdullah's attending consultant cardiologist, shared similar sentiments. "Tun Abdullah embodied quiet strength and dignity, even in his final moments." – April 14, 2025
