Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today paid his last respects to former transport minister and MCA honorary life president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, who died on Saturday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the wake at Xiao En Centre was attended by several prominent figures, including MCA president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong and Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Chang Lih Kang. The prime minister expressed his condolences to Dr Ling's wife, Toh Puan Ong Ee Nah, and family on behalf of the nation, acknowledging Dr Ling's significant contributions to the country.

Prime Minister Anwar shared that Dr Ling was a close associate of his elder brother, highlighting their political journey together in Penang and Kuala Lumpur. Anwar noted their close collaboration during their respective tenures in MCA and UMNO, appreciating Dr Ling's contributions not only to the MCA but also to Malaysia, particularly during his time at the Transport Ministry.

Dr Ling passed away at the age of 82 and is survived by his wife and their two sons, Ling Hee Leong and Ling Hee Keat. He was one of the longest-serving Cabinet members, leading the Transport Ministry for 17 years from 1986 until his resignation in 2003.