KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has described the late Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid as a patriot and highly respected civil service figure whose deeds are etched in Malaysia’s history.
The prime minister said the former chief secretary to the government is synonymous with various efforts to improve the image and efficiency of the public service, and was committed to contributing ideas and expertise, including in the education sector, even after retirement.
Sarji, as chairman of the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (Ikim) and Islamic Affairs Committee of the Conference of Rulers, played a significant role in empowering Islamic teachings in the country, he said in a Facebook post, describing Sarji’s death as a big loss to the nation.
“Condolences to Sarji’s family on his demise. I pray that they continue to be brave in their moment of grief.
“May his soul be showered with blessings. Al-Fatihah.”
Sarji, who was the Tokoh Maal Hijrah 1420 recipient, breathed his last in hospital at 1.40am today.
He was laid to rest at the Raudhatul Sakinah Bukit Kiara II Muslim cemetery about 12pm following funeral prayers at Saidina Umar Al-Khattab Mosque in Bukit Damansara.
Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, in a Facebook post, said Sarji was firm and deeply dedicated to executing the tasks he was entrusted with.
“He was courageous and outspoken, firm in decision-making, trustworthy and highly disciplined,” said the former prime minister.
“His modest demeanour, which made him approachable, earned him the respect of many, and he was highly regarded by the community.”
Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, too, took to social media to express sorrow over Sarji’s death, and conveyed his condolences to the deceased’s family.
Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the country has lost a respected civil service figure who contributed much to the development of Islam.
“May all his deeds and services to Malaysia reward him in the hereafter. My sympathies to his family. May they remain strong as they cope with this loss,” he said in a social media post.
Born on September 16, 1938 in Tapah, Perak, Sarji served as chief secretary from 1990 to 1996 during the time of fourth prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He was founder and first chairman of Ikim in 1992, and reappointed to the post in 2019. – Bernama, August 28, 2021
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