(Kuching, 24th) Sarawak's political scene has lost another revered veteran—Datuk Seri Bo’ Tajang Laing has passed away at the age of 100.
His family announced the sad news today (April 24) via social media.
Bo' Tajang was widely regarded as an outstanding figure in Sarawak's political and social arenas, especially respected for his lifelong dedication to rural development and education.
He was born on February 22, 1926, and grew up in the interior of Sarawak, personally witnessing Malaysia’s journey—from the hardships of the pre-independence era to his involvement in matters relating to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
His early life was deeply influenced by the environment of the interior: at the time, rivers were the main mode of transportation, while educational and medical resources were extremely limited. These experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment.
Bo' Tajang began his early career in education as a teacher, firmly believing that education was the key to improving life for rural communities. He witnessed many children forced to travel long distances or even drop out of school due to a lack of access to schools.
Although he had no initial intention to enter politics, Bo' Tajang stepped up at the encouragement of community elders to fight for the rights of the Ulu people. From there, he entered public service, rising from educator to political leader, and eventually served as a minister.
He was a state minister in Sarawak's first-ever cabinet under the leadership of the first Chief Minister, Stephen Kalong Ningkan, helping to lay the foundation for the early governance of the state government.
Throughout his political career, he consistently focused on the needs of rural people, striving to build schools in remote areas and narrowing the urban-rural development gap—efforts that remain among his most far-reaching contributions.
Beyond politics, Bo' Tajang was also passionate about culture and traditional arts, skilled at woodcarving and making the traditional Sape musical instrument.
His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a valuable legacy centered on service, humility, and steadfast commitment to the people.
He is survived by a large family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
As of now, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
His family announced the sad news today (April 24) via social media.
Bo' Tajang was widely regarded as an outstanding figure in Sarawak's political and social arenas, especially respected for his lifelong dedication to rural development and education.
He was born on February 22, 1926, and grew up in the interior of Sarawak, personally witnessing Malaysia’s journey—from the hardships of the pre-independence era to his involvement in matters relating to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).
His early life was deeply influenced by the environment of the interior: at the time, rivers were the main mode of transportation, while educational and medical resources were extremely limited. These experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment.
Although he had no initial intention to enter politics, Bo' Tajang stepped up at the encouragement of community elders to fight for the rights of the Ulu people. From there, he entered public service, rising from educator to political leader, and eventually served as a minister.
He was a state minister in Sarawak's first-ever cabinet under the leadership of the first Chief Minister, Stephen Kalong Ningkan, helping to lay the foundation for the early governance of the state government.
Throughout his political career, he consistently focused on the needs of rural people, striving to build schools in remote areas and narrowing the urban-rural development gap—efforts that remain among his most far-reaching contributions.
Beyond politics, Bo' Tajang was also passionate about culture and traditional arts, skilled at woodcarving and making the traditional Sape musical instrument.
His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a valuable legacy centered on service, humility, and steadfast commitment to the people.
He is survived by a large family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
As of now, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.