Forum: Pak Lah focused on work that bridged people and communities across the Causeway

It was sad to hear of the death of former Malaysian prime minister Abdullah Badawi (Ex-Malaysian PM Abdullah Badawi dies at 85, April 14).

Tun Abdullah, affectionately known as Pak Lah, was a big-hearted man and a great statesman.

Known to be practical in diplomacy, Pak Lah did the right and brave thing by cancelling the “crooked bridge” between Malaysia and Singapore, a project initiated by his predecessor.

With a gentle yet firm leadership, Pak Lah focused on work that bridged people and communities across the Causeway.

He famously cited the example of “plucking the low-hanging fruits before the musang comes and takes them away” in dealing with the sometimes acrimonious ties between two closely connected countries. Because of his efforts, Singapore and Malaysia can cooperate in economic developments that bring benefit to both countries and their people.

Malaysians and Singaporeans alike are gratified by Pak Lah’s magnanimous leadership.

Foo Sing Kheng

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