BUSINESS COMMUNITY PAYS TRIBUTE TO TUN ABDULLAH’S ECONOMIC LEGACY

KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Bernama) -- The business community fondly remembers Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi as a leader who championed dialogue, stability and sustainable economic growth, according to the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM).

The NCCIM said his leadership was defined by a deep commitment to progressive governance, economic inclusivity and national unity. 

“Through his Islam Hadhari approach, he championed a model of development rooted in universal values, bridging progress with compassion and a strong moral compass.

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“Among his key economic initiatives was the establishment of five regional economic corridors aimed at promoting balanced regional development and accelerating the growth of emerging sectors, including the halal industry,” the chamber added.

The NCCIM said Abdullah also brought a forward-thinking approach to agriculture, integrating advanced technologies and skilled expertise to modernise the sector and position it as a key contributor to national development.

“Under his stewardship, Malaysia experienced encouraging gross domestic product growth ranging between 5.8 per cent and 6.3 per cent prior to the 2008 global financial crisis, further solidifying his standing as a respected and visionary leader within the business community,” it said.

Meanwhile, Brahim’s Holdings Bhd described Abdullah’s passing as a loss of a much-beloved statesman as well as the Father of Human Capital Development.

“Condolences to Tun Jeanne (Abdullah’s widow) and the entire family of Allahyarham Tun Abdullah,” the company said in a statement.

Tun Abdullah passed away at the National Heart Institute (IJN) at 7.10pm, aged 86. His son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, confirmed the news.

-- BERNAMA