KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hailed the country’s fifth prime minister, the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, as a humble statesman who was also a reformist, recalling the fresh approach he brought to politics.
“More than a leader, he was a gracious statesman who introduced a new narrative to Malaysia’s power politics.
“Beyond his achievements, Pak Lah taught us the meaning of humanity in leadership. He led with calmness, did not grapple onto power, and never raised his tone despite being under relentless pressure,” Anwar said in a statement on Abdullah’s passing this evening at the age of 85.
Anwar credited Abdullah for setting fresh narratives in Malaysian politics with his introduction of Islam Hadhari or “civilisational Islam” that emphasised progress and values-based development.
He also noted how Abdullah has spearheaded judicial reforms, promoting transparency in administration and strengthening of institutions. He also cited the former prime minister’s roles in facilitating press freedom and allowing public participation.
Anwar described his former Umno colleague as a dear friend as a gentle and kind individual/
“Despite having a ‘stressful’ political career, Pak Lah has always been a calming figure. He accepted me with much courtesy even though we were at opposing sides.
“That shows the soul of a great statesman,” said Anwar.
“I still recall how he did not add salt to my wounds when I was going through dark moments in my life,” said Anwar who was in prison from 1999 until 2004 on sodomy and corruption charges.
“That was Pak Lah’s character – to choose peace when he could easily retaliate,” Anwar added.
Abdullah succeeded Anwar as the third deputy prime minister for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad in 1999. He became prime minister after Mahathir’s stepped down in 2003.
Anwar was released from prison in 2004, after his first sodomy conviction was overturned, during Abdullah’s tenure as prim minister. Abdullah stepped down as prime minister in 2009.
Anwar recalled the last time he visited Abdullah, who was in a frail condition.
“Even then as we shook hands, (I could see) his eyes which reflected the love and peace that has never dimmed.”
Anwar conveyed his condolences to Abdullah’s widow Tun Jeanne Abdullah, son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin and Abdullah’s extended family, adding that the country mourned the loss of a humble statesman.
“Bon Voyage Pak Lah. The country is indebted to your contributions and your traits.
“May his soul is placed among the righteous ones, his sins be forgiven, and may he be rewarded for the deeds made throughout his lifetime.” – April 14, 2025