SINGAPORE, April 15 — Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has extended his deepest condolences to the people of Malaysia following the passing of its fifth prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi yesterday.
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Singapore's Prime Minister cum Finance Minister Lawrence Wong delivers the Singapore Energy Lecture during the 15th Singapore International Energy Week, Singapore, on October 25, 2022. — Picture by REUTERS[/caption]
He described Abdullah, who served as prime minister from October 31, 2003, until April 3, 2009, as a respected leader who helped Asean stand tall in the world.
“I am sad to learn of the passing of former Malaysian prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. During his six years as prime minister, Tun Abdullah made significant contributions to Malaysia’s social and economic development,” Wong said in a Facebook post.
He noted that during Abdullah’s tenure, Malaysia and Singapore deepened cooperation in areas of mutual interest, like the development of Iskandar Malaysia, and made substantial progress on bilateral matters — laying a strong foundation for the excellent ties between the two nations today.
“Singapore was fortunate to count Tun Abdullah as a friend,” Wong said.
Abdullah, affectionately known as 'Pak Lah', passed away at the age of 85 at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur at 7.10pm yesterday.
— Bernama
