KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has conveyed his condolences over the death of Malay Mail editor-in-chief Datuk Wong Sai Wan, who died of a heart attack this morning.
Describing Wong as a great mentor to many journalists, past and present, Muhyiddin said the late editor-in-chief was also well-known for his kindness and humility.
“A great mentor for many past and present journalists in this country and well known for his kindness and humility, Datuk Wong Sai Wan, whom I have known for many years as an epitome of quality journalism, will be greatly missed,” Muhyiddin said in a Facebook post.
Wong, who has been a veteran in Malaysia's journalism industry for 40 years, began his journey with The Star in 1984.
Spending 29 years there, Wong rose through the ranks, starting as a reporter before leaving as an executive editor in 2013.
He then joined Ancom’s subsidiary Redberry Sdn Bhd as a director of special projects before being promoted to chief operating officer in 2015. Wong was subsequently redesignated as group chief media officer.
The wake will be held tomorrow and Sunday, from 11am to 6pm, at the Xiao En Centre, located at 1, Jalan Kuari in Cheras.
In accordance with Covid-19 standard operating procedures, only 50 people will be allowed in at any one time.
The funeral will be conducted on Monday, with the time to be confirmed.
Earlier today, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah also extended their condolences to Wong’s family.
The royal couple expressed their sadness over Wong’s death, saying they hoped his family remained patient and resilient.
“The king and queen truly appreciate his services and contributions to society, and described his death as a huge loss to national journalism,” said a statement posted on Istana Negara’s Facebook page.
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also extended his condolences and commented on Wong’s death, saying he always advocated fair journalism.
Takziah pada keluarga mendiang Datuk Wong Sai Wan. Semoga keluarganya diberi ketabahan di saat ini, serta dipermudahkan urusan. https://t.co/72NiON43IS
— Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) May 14, 2021
Telling The Vibes he has met Wong on a few occasions, Anwar added that under Wong’s stewardship, the news outlet provided a platform for reasoned debate.
“Condolences to the family of the late Datuk Wong Sai Wan. May they be given strength to go through this difficult time,” Anwar said in a tweet today. – The Vibes, May 14, 2021
