(Sempangjang, 6th) - Dr. Datuk Ng Piao Seng, President of the Sibu Chinese Association and the Sempangjang Chinese Chamber of Commerce, issued a statement yesterday expressing deep sorrow over the passing of Dr. Ling Liong Sik, and extending his sincerest condolences to the family.
He said that the death of Tun Ling Liong Sik is not only a great loss to the nation of an experienced and pivotal political leader, but also symbolizes the official end of a political era that valued stability, pragmatism, balance, and consultation.
Ng Piao Seng pointed out that as an outstanding Fuzhou compatriot, Tun Ling Liong Sik started from medicine and entered politics, stepping from the grassroots to the core of national power step by step. His life struggle is in itself a true portrayal of Malaysian Chinese participating in nation-building.
He emphasized that at some of the most critical and complex historical junctures in national politics, Tun Ling Liong Sik was entrusted with heavy responsibilities and became the only Chinese leader in Malaysia’s history to serve as Acting Prime Minister. This fact is not only of historical significance, but also carries a deeper political symbolism — it was a reflection of an era when the system was still willing to accommodate diversity and trust ability instead of racial labels.
“Looking back today, this is not only a personal honor, but also a historical testament to the political status once achieved by the Chinese community.”
Ng Piao Seng stated bluntly that Tun Ling Liong Sik’s political style stands in stark contrast to the current high-profile, confrontational politics. He was known for his calmness, pragmatism, and skill in coordination, seeking the greatest common ground in a complex, plural society rather than causing division. This political wisdom is especially scarce in today’s society.
He also noted that during his tenure as Minister of Transport, Tun Ling Liong Sik vigorously promoted the modernization of ports and logistics systems, securing Malaysia’s position in the regional trade system. At the same time, his vision for higher education, especially his push for the TARC educational system, cultivated countless talents for the Chinese community and the whole country. Such “institutional contributions” are far more historically valuable than short-term political achievements.
“He was not a politician who won applause with slogans, but a nation-builder who left a mark through institutions, construction, and achievements.”
Ng Piao Seng further stated that in today’s increasingly emotional and polarized political environment, Tun Ling Liong Sik’s passing further highlights the decline of rational politics, and serves as a reminder for future generations to rethink the direction of national governance.
“If a country loses calm, steady leaders like him, who can transcend ethnic and interest divides, it is not only a loss of talent but a regression of governance capability.”
He emphasized that Tun Ling Liong Sik does not belong to any particular party or era, but is an important part of the entire nation’s history. His contributions should not be diminished or forgotten.
Ng Piao Seng concluded that Tun Ling Liong Sik’s life was a profound embodiment of responsibility, dedication, and wisdom. What he left behind is not just political achievements, but also a political character and national vision.
“Hereby, I extend my deepest condolences. Though Tun Ling Liong Sik has departed, the stature, vision, and spirit he represented will forever remain in our national history.”
He said that the death of Tun Ling Liong Sik is not only a great loss to the nation of an experienced and pivotal political leader, but also symbolizes the official end of a political era that valued stability, pragmatism, balance, and consultation.
Ng Piao Seng pointed out that as an outstanding Fuzhou compatriot, Tun Ling Liong Sik started from medicine and entered politics, stepping from the grassroots to the core of national power step by step. His life struggle is in itself a true portrayal of Malaysian Chinese participating in nation-building.
“Looking back today, this is not only a personal honor, but also a historical testament to the political status once achieved by the Chinese community.”
Ng Piao Seng stated bluntly that Tun Ling Liong Sik’s political style stands in stark contrast to the current high-profile, confrontational politics. He was known for his calmness, pragmatism, and skill in coordination, seeking the greatest common ground in a complex, plural society rather than causing division. This political wisdom is especially scarce in today’s society.
He also noted that during his tenure as Minister of Transport, Tun Ling Liong Sik vigorously promoted the modernization of ports and logistics systems, securing Malaysia’s position in the regional trade system. At the same time, his vision for higher education, especially his push for the TARC educational system, cultivated countless talents for the Chinese community and the whole country. Such “institutional contributions” are far more historically valuable than short-term political achievements.
“He was not a politician who won applause with slogans, but a nation-builder who left a mark through institutions, construction, and achievements.”
Ng Piao Seng further stated that in today’s increasingly emotional and polarized political environment, Tun Ling Liong Sik’s passing further highlights the decline of rational politics, and serves as a reminder for future generations to rethink the direction of national governance.
“If a country loses calm, steady leaders like him, who can transcend ethnic and interest divides, it is not only a loss of talent but a regression of governance capability.”
He emphasized that Tun Ling Liong Sik does not belong to any particular party or era, but is an important part of the entire nation’s history. His contributions should not be diminished or forgotten.
Ng Piao Seng concluded that Tun Ling Liong Sik’s life was a profound embodiment of responsibility, dedication, and wisdom. What he left behind is not just political achievements, but also a political character and national vision.
“Hereby, I extend my deepest condolences. Though Tun Ling Liong Sik has departed, the stature, vision, and spirit he represented will forever remain in our national history.”