KUCHING: The late Jepak assemblyman Datuk Talib Zulpilip was a leader known for his unwavering commitment to integrity and his relentless fight against corruption.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Talib’s outstanding performance and dedication led to his appointment as the first minister to oversee the Ministry in the Chief Minister’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman) back in 2017.
“Yes, he is known for fighting corruption in Sarawak and because of his high integrity, I gave him the task of leading the ombudsman system in Sarawak,” he said after performing funeral prayers for the late Talib at the Samariang Islamic Cemetery Complex here last night (Sept 15).
Following his successful re-election in the last State Election, Abang Johari said the late Talib contributed a wealth of ideas for the development of Jepak Jaya.
“He became an advisor to the state government to see the development in the area… I represent the government and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) to express my condolences on his passing,” he said.
Talib, 72, was safely laid to rest at 10.10pm at Raudhatul Sakinah Kuching (RSK), Semariang.
Among those who came to pay their last respects were Acting Head of State Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and his wife, Datuk Fatimah Mohamad Iskandar; Abang Johari; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and others.
The late Talib was transported to the cemetery around 9.50 pm, where State Imam Datuk Mustapha Kamal Ahmad Fauzi recited prayers before the burial process was completed.
According to Talib’s private secretary, he passed away two days after celebrating his 72nd birthday at 5.50 pm at the Normah Medical Specialist Centre yesterday.
Talib had been admitted to the hospital around 7am and later transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) at approximately 10am, where he was eventually pronounced dead at 5.50pm.
It was confirmed that he suffered from multiple organ failures, including issues with his liver, kidneys, and high blood pressure.
The late Talib had been the Jepak assemblyman for five consecutive terms since the constituency’s first contested election in 1996.
