KUALA LUMPUR – Several ministers have penned heart-breaking farewell and condolence messages following Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub’s sudden passing last night.
One of them is Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh, who described Salahuddin as her defender and precious friend in a touching post on her Facebook page.
“Salahuddin was a hard worker. He took pride in his Rahmah initiatives and wasted no time in making sure its implementation was effective nationwide. He wanted our return to Putrajaya to be lasting this round and he wanted this unity government to be successful.
“Malaysians, I want you to know he did not shortchange you everyday that he was in Putrajaya. He worked hard till his last working day on Friday.”
Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail wrote in a Facebook post that he did not expect visiting Salahuddin at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital would be the last time they spoke.
“Three days ago, Salahuddin called (me) again. This time he asked about my health and reminded me that I need to rest. Yesterday, I visited him at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital after being informed of his condition. That was our last meeting.
“I have lost a true friend. He had a gentle demeanour, and he understood the pain of the people.”
He added that he met Salahuddin last week to discuss several matters and finalise three overlapping Amanah seats in addition to the campaign schedule.
Apart from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living portfolio, Salahuddin was Amanah deputy president, Pulai MP and Simpang Jeram assemblyman.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli also expressed his condolences to Salahuddin’s family and prayed that his soul be placed among the faithful and pious.
“May all his efforts, services and devotion be rewarded greatly.”
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, meanwhile, said: “I am taken aback by the news of my cabinet friend’s departure. A great loss to the country.”
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri paid tribute to Salahuddin and his Rahmah concept that was mooted as a way to help ease the current cost of living.
“May Allah have mercy and forgive his sins and place him among the pious. I also pray for perseverance for his family members in facing this difficult trial,” she was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Public Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said he was very saddened to hear of Salahuddin’s death.
“My condolences to all his family members and may they be given patience and strength. Our country has definitely lost one of its gems.”
Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul said Salahuddin was a humble leader who always cared about the welfare of the people.
“From afar, I send my thoughts and condolences to his wife and family. I pray that Allah SWT will shower mercy on his soul and that the family will be given fortitude during these trying times.”
DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng was full of praise for Salahuddin’s character and services in sowing the seeds of hope for the country’s future.
“I am profoundly sad about the demise of my friend and comrade-in-arms, Salahuddin Ayub. My condolences to his family, may they be patient in facing this test,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Salahuddin died yesterday at 9.23pm at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, Kedah. He was 61.
Yesterday, Salahuddin’s press secretary Syakirin Husnal said the minister was rushed to the HSB emergency ward at 10.15pm on Friday after experiencing nausea and vomiting before being diagnosed with a brain haemorrhage.
Apart from cabinet members, other political leaders, such as Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang and Muda president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman also conveyed their condolences. – July 24, 2023