State assembly observes a minute’s silence
KUCHING: The Sarawak legislative assembly observed a minute’s silence at the start of its afternoon sitting yesterday for Dewan Negara President Datuk Mutang Tagal, who died yesterday at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur.
Deputy Speaker Datuk Idris Buang, after conveying “with utmost sadness and regret” the passing of Mutang, then requested assemblymen in the chamber to observe silence and offer prayers according to their beliefs.
Satok assemblyman Datuk Ibrahim Baki described Mutang as a true “anak Sarawak” and a proud member of the Lun Bawang people.
He said Mutang made history by becoming the first Dayak to be appointed president of the Dewan Negara in February this year.
Mutang’s passing, Ibrahim said, was a big loss to the nation, Sarawak, the legal fraternity and the business community.
Mutang read law at Universiti Malaya. After serving two terms as Bukit Mas member of parliament from 1982 to 1990, he went back to his legal practice and also ventured into business.
Ibrahim said Mutang contributed his experience and expertise to many associations.
Among the business positions he held was as a supreme council member of the Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Mutang was also patron of the Lawas Shooting and Archery Association, adviser to the Northern Sarawak Journalists Associatio, member of the Sarawak Advocates Association, member of the Sabah Advocates Association and a member of the Malaysian Bar Council.
Ba’Kelalan assemblyman Baru Bian, in a statement, said Mutang’s death was a shock to everyone in Sarawak.
“Not only the Lun Bawang community but the Dayak community in Sarawak were proud that one of their own had been appointed as Senate president in February this year, and it is indeed sad that he only served for a few months before his untimely demise,” Baru said.
Baru, also a Lun Bawang and lawyer, said the close-knit community greatly felt the loss.
On behalf of his family and Ba’ Kelalan constituents, Baru sent heartfelt condolences to Mutang’s family.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may his family be comforted by the loving hands of God at this difficult time, with full confidence and hope as believers, that we will meet again in a much better place as promised.”