Malaysia’s Notable Figures Who Left a Lasting Impact
In the past 12 months, Malaysia witnessed the passing of many distinguished individuals who had helped to shape the country in their own way. As 2024 draws to a close, FMT looks back at the lives and times of those who had served and protected the country, as well as others who contributed to its development — socially or economically.
Business and Entrepreneurship
T Ananda Krishnan, 86
Nov 28
T Ananda Krishnan, who was listed by Forbes in April as the third richest person in the country, was the founder of Maxis Bhd and Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd. Ananda, a Harvard Business School alumnus, also helped to set up Petronas, Malaysia’s national oil company. He had supported various causes, notably co-organising Live Aid, a multi-venue benefit concert to raise funds for those affected by the famine in Ethiopia, with Bob Geldof in 1985.
Politics and Governance
Daim Zainuddin, 86
Nov 13
Daim Zainuddin served as Malaysia’s finance minister twice, both times in the Dr Mahathir Mohamad administration. In his first stint from 1984 to 1991, he implemented structural adjustments to strengthen the country’s economy. He returned for a second stint from 1999 to 2001 to deal with the economic challenges caused by the Asian financial crisis.
Abdul Taib Mahmud, 87
Feb 21
Abdul Taib Mahmud led the Sarawak state government for 33 years from 1981 to 2014, making him Malaysia’s longest-serving state leader. He was the second-longest serving MP, representing Kota Samarahan for 38 years (1970-2008), and was Sarawak governor from 2014 until late January this year. Taib was widely credited with developing the state through numerous infrastructure projects and had been described by Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg as the "father of modern Sarawak".
Law and Justice
Manjeet Singh Dhillon, 82
Oct 28
Manjeet Singh Dhillon was with the Attorney-General’s Chambers until the late 1970s when he went into private practice. He served as the Malaysian Bar president from 1991 to 1992. Manjeet was involved in several high-profile cases. He was defence counsel for one of the accused in the Sosilawati Lawiya murder trial, and also acted for Abdul Razak Baginda in the RM100 million civil suit filed by Altantuya Shaariibuu’s family. He once served as president of the Royal Lake Club.
Education and Healthcare
Sister Enda Ryan, 95
April 7
Sister Enda Ryan, born Eileen Philomena Ryan on Dec 30, 1928 in Ireland, was the founder of Assunta primary and secondary schools. She retired as headmistress after 31 years of service in education. She also played a key role in developing Ave Maria Clinic, now Assunta Hospital. Sister Enda, who became a Malaysian citizen in October 1966, had received numerous awards, including the Darjah Kebesaran Dato’ Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah (DSIS), which carried the title "Datin Paduka".
Entertainment and Culture
Jay Jay, of Carefree, 67
Aug 4
Jay Jay, whose real name was Fauzi Darus, underwent heart bypass surgery at the National Heart Institute on May 23, after being admitted two days earlier for a mild heart attack. Known for his hit, "Rindu Bayangan", Jay Jay rose to fame with Carefree in 1979 before going solo in 1984. He had won several awards, including Most Popular Male Singer at the 1988 Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian.
Activism and Social Justice
Aunty Bersih, 78
March 26
Annie Ooi, better known as Aunty Bersih, was a retired English teacher from Penang who never missed a major rally. She braved tear gas and water cannons while marching for Malaysian democracy on July 9, 2011. Bersih executive director Ooi Kok Hin described her as a symbol of the ordinary citizens’ struggle for democracy in Malaysia.
Police and Law Enforcement
Hanif Omar, 85
April 20
Hanif Omar was appointed inspector-general of police (IGP) on June 8, 1974, when he was only 35. He led the police force until his retirement on Jan 15, 1994. Hanif, who was born in Teluk Intan, Perak, rose quickly in the force, becoming Melaka police chief on Sept 7, 1970, and Selangor police chief on Dec 6, 1971. He was appointed deputy IGP on Feb 1, 1973.
Conclusion
The passing of these notable individuals has left a significant void in Malaysia’s social, economic, and political landscape. Their contributions and achievements will continue to inspire future generations to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on the country.
FAQs
- Who was T Ananda Krishnan?
- T Ananda Krishnan was a Malaysian businessman and entrepreneur who founded Maxis Bhd and Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd.
- Who was Abdul Taib Mahmud?
- Abdul Taib Mahmud was a Malaysian politician who served as the Chief Minister of Sarawak for 33 years.
- Who was Sister Enda Ryan?
- Sister Enda Ryan was an Irish-born educator who founded Assunta primary and secondary schools in Malaysia.
- Who was Jay Jay?
- Jay Jay was a Malaysian singer who rose to fame with the band Carefree in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Who was Aunty Bersih?
- Aunty Bersih was a retired English teacher from Penang who was a prominent figure in Malaysia’s democracy movement.