THE Sabah government has declared a one-day official mourning period, with the state flag flown at half-mast, following the passing of former Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah.
In an official statement, Sabah State Secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong confirmed that Tun Ahmadshah passed away at 8.45pm on Tuesday at a private hospital in the state capital.
“The state government has announced an official day of mourning and the Sabah flag will be flown at half-mast during this period,” he said.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor offered condolences on behalf of the government and his family, acknowledging the late Tun Ahmadshah’s significant contributions to the state.
“Tun’s service to Sabah was immense, especially during his time in the civil service. On behalf of my family and the state government, I extend my condolences to the family of the late Tun.
“May his soul be blessed and placed among the righteous,” Hajiji said.
Former Chief Minister and President of Parti Warisan, Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, also expressed his sorrow and respect for the late statesman.
“Tun Ahmadshah was not only a respected leader but also a public servant whose contributions to Sabah, especially in public administration and education, were immense and will not be forgotten.
“On behalf of myself and Warisan, I offer condolences to his family. May his soul be blessed and placed among the righteous,” he said.
Born in Kampung Inanam on 9 December 1946, Tun Ahmadshah served as Sabah’s ninth Yang di-Pertua Negeri from 2003 to 2010.
Before his appointment, he held various senior posts in the state civil service, including Deputy State Secretary, Director of Sabah State Establishment Department, Head of Internal Affairs and Research at the Chief Minister’s Department, and Secretary of the Sabah Islamic Religious Council.
He retired from public service in December 2002.
Tun Ahmadshah is survived by four children. His wife, Toh Puan Dayang Masuyah Awang Japar, passed away in 2020. - May 21, 2025
