KUALA LUMPUR : Malaysia has paid tribute to former Singapore
President, the late Dr Wee Kim Wee, for his efforts in enhancing
bilateral ties.
The late Dr Wee was High Commissioner to Malaysia from 1973 to
1980.
Acting Foreign Minister Kadir Sheikh Fadzir represented the
Malaysian government when he signed the book of condolences at
Singapore's High Commissioner's office in Kuala Lumpur.
Mr Kadir, who is also Malaysia's Information Minister, said Dr Wee
was most remembered for his efforts in boosting bilateral relations
between the two countries.
"One particular thing we observe - he really valued Malaysia and
Singapore relationship, and he worked very hard not only to
preserve our warm relations but also to enhance it whenever
possible. And we will surely remember him, and we will miss him
very much," he said.
Since Dr Wee's death on Monday, local media have been carrying
reports and pictures in fond memories of the late Singapore
President.
His achievements as a young journalist, engaged by United Press
International to head its regional office, also won him great
admiration.
Mr Abdullah Ahmad, Former Chief Editor of the New Straits Times,
said: "There were not many Malaysians or Singaporeans in those days
where new agencies or foreign newspapers would hire. I was so proud
to see a fellow Asian and a fellow Southeast Asian to do that in
UPI."
An old friend, Mr Abdullah had known Dr Wee while he was a High
Commissioner to Malaysia in the 1970s.
Mr Abdullah added: "President Wee was a good man, a great man, a
good friend to Malaysia. He understood what Malaysia was all
about...one thing that has always struck me - he was a decent,
friendly human being."
Dr Wee's kindness and humility will be fondly remembered and deeply
missed by many Malaysians.
At his funeral on Friday, Malaysia's Housing and Local Government
Minister Ong Ka Ting will be the country's representative.
And some of Dr Wee's old friends have also travelled across the
Causeway to be present for the funeral at the Mandai Crematorium. -
CNA/de