Barisan, Opposition leaders united in paying tribute to Adenan Satem

PETALING JAYA: Barisan Nasional and opposition leaders were united in paying tribute to the late Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
Pakatan Harapan presidential council, in a joint statement, lauded Adenan as not only a chief minister and politician who had contributed to Sarawak since 1979, but also a federalist leader who fought for the rights of Sarawakians.
"We would like to express our condolences to Adenan's family. Today, Malaysia lost a leader who put the rakyat's interest above his own. May Allah forgive his sins, and place him with the faithful," it said.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein tweeted: "May his family remain strong over his passing. Sad day for all, especially Sarawak, on losing a leader who had contributed a lot, and one whom I deeply respect. Condolences, and Al-Fatihah."
Selangor Mentri Besar and PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said he was deeply saddened and shocked by the news of Adenan's passing, describing him as a great loss to both Sarawak and the country.
"I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the late Chief Minister and pray that they will be able to go through this difficult time with patience and fortitude. His immeasurable years of selfless service will always be remembered." he said.
"Condolences to Puan Seri Jamilah and family, as well as the rakyat of Sarawak over the demise of Adenan. Malaysia lost a great leader today," said Transport Minister and MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
"Deepest condolonces to bereaved family. Malaysia and Sarawak have lost a great visionary leader," said DAP national adviser Lim Kit Siang.
"Greatly shocked. Great loss to all #Malaysians. My sincere condolences to the family and the people of Sarawak. #RIPTanSriAdenanSatim," said Deputy Education Minister Datuk P. Kamalanathan
The Penang government also expressed its deepest condolences over Adenan's demise.
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said in a statement the state government was shocked by his sudden demise and shared the grief of many Sarawakians who admired his frankness and forthrightness.
"In the few years I met him during the regular Conference of Rulers meetings, I found him to be humble, well read,easily approachable and willing to engage," he said.
In Ipoh, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir described Adenan as a brave personality who always had the rakyat's interest close to his heart.
"He is a man well respected by all and put the rakyat as his priority in every aspect of the state administration.
"Under his leadership, Sarawak had managed to bring all the people together wherever they are."
Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Mohamed Khaled Nordin said Adenan's death was a great loss for the nation and Sarawak.
"It is sad to hear the news that he has gone in the midst of implementing many initiatives in Sarawak." he said in a statement.