KUALA LUMPUR — Even in death, the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s legacy of humility continues, especially towards the less fortunate.
As a mark of respect for Malaysia’s fifth prime minister, fondly known as Pak Lah, who died on April 14, several major corporations — including Khazanah Nasional Berhad, CIMB Bank and CelcomDigi — cancelled their Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations scheduled for yesterday.
In keeping with the spirit of Syawal, all food prepared for these events was distributed to community groups to avoid wastage.
CIMB earlier issued a statement saying, “We regret to inform you that the CIMB Raya Open House scheduled for today (April 15) at the St Regis Kuala Lumpur has been cancelled, following the passing of Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi.
“The late Pak Lah played an instrumental role in the GLC (government-linked companies) Transformation Programme, which significantly shaped CIMB’s journey into becoming the bank it is today.
“As the nation mourns his loss, we extend our deepest condolences to Tun’s family and loved ones.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your kind understanding during this time of national mourning.”
The GLC Transformation Programme, launched in May 2004 — a year after Badawi became Prime Minister — was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to drive development and stimulate economic growth. It introduced key performance indicators (KPIs), reforms in board composition, a revamp of Khazanah Nasional Berhad, and changes in the leadership of several GLCS,
CIMB also confirmed that food prepared for the event was distributed to 1,000 people from various community groups in the Klang Valley, allowing Malaysians from all walks of life to share in the festive spirit.
Similarly, CelcomDigi told Scoop that although their Raya event was cancelled, they honoured their commitment to children from several welfare homes. Instead of hosting them at the open house, the company’s staff visited the homes and delivered food personally.
Badawi, who served as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009, breathed his last at the National Heart Institute (IJN) at 7.10pm on Monday. He was aged 85.
He was accorded a state funeral and laid to rest at the Makam Pahlawan, Masjid Negara, yesterday. All buildings within a 2km radius of Masjid Negara flew the Jalur Gemilang at half-mast until the conclusion of the funeral ceremony. – April 16, 2025