THE Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) was sombre as all members offered their condolences to the family of the late Datuk Mutang Tagal, the first Orang Ulu and Lun Bawang to be appointed as the 20th Senate President.
Today (May 10), the August house observed a moment of silence following the latter’s passing earlier in the day.
After the afternoon session of the sitting resumed at 2.45 pm, DUN Deputy Speaker Idris Buang called on the members to pay their respect.
When debating the motion of appreciation for the Head of State’s address, Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki shared that the late Mutang, who was also a fellow lawyer, was elected as the MP for Bukit Mas at the age of 27 in 1982 after he graduated from college. He was re-elected in 1986.
“Following that, he became a corporate figure and was involved in many associations, contributing his experience and expertise.
“He made history by becoming the first Orang Ulu Senate President after being appointed in February this year. He was a true Anak Sarawak and a proud Lun Bawang.
“His passing is a big loss to the nation, Sarawak, the legal fraternity and the business community. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Additionally, Tupong assemblyman Fazzrudin Abdul Rahman also extended his condolences to Mutang’s family, acknowledging his remarkable legacy as the first Yang Dipertua of the Dewan Negara from the Orang Ulu and Lun Bawang ethnicities.
“He was a statesman, a respected lawyer, and a prominent corporate figure, contributing to the development of Sarawak, community development and the rural economy.
“His passing is a great loss to Malaysia and Sarawak,” he said.
Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapor also conveyed his condolences to the family of the late Mutang when debating on the motion.
Mutang, 70, had been undergoing treatment at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur after falling ill during a working trip to Azerbaijan on May 6.
He died at 11.46 am today.
Mutang’s final tribute ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow (Saturday, May 11) at Nirvana 2 (Nirvana Centre KL), 16, Jalan Dewan Bahasa in Kuala Lumpur, from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
Another final tribute ceremony will take place on Sunday, May 12, at BEM Airport Road Church, Miri, with an expected arrival time of 10.00 am.
Lastly, on Monday, May 13, a memorial dervice will be held at BEM Canada Hill Church, Miri starting at 9.00 am until completion, followed by burial at the SIB Cemetery in Lambir.
The August house adjourned at 7.13 pm today and will resume on Monday, May 13.
Earlier, 18 assembly persons debated on the motion of appreciation for the Head of State’s address.
