Kuala lumpur: Former Transport Minister and MCA Honorary Life President Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik passed away this morning at the age of 82. MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong confirmed the news to Bernama when contacted, stating, "We received the sad news of Tun Dr Ling's passing today. Further details will be announced from time to time."
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Ling was born in Kuala Kangsar, Perak, on September 13, 1943. He completed his early education at King Edward VII School in Taiping and later attended the Royal Military College in Sungai Besi. In 1966, he earned a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Singapore and began his career as a medical officer at Penang General Hospital. However, Dr Ling soon transitioned to politics by joining the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) in 1968.
Dr Ling was married to Toh Puan Ong Ee Nah, and they had two sons, Ling Hee Leong and Ling Hee Keat. His political journey began as the Member of Parliament for Mata Kuching, serving from 1974 to 1982, and later represented Labis from 1986 to 1999. Throughout his political career, he held various governmental roles, including Parliamentary Secretary, Deputy Minister of Information, Deputy Minister of Finance, and Deputy Minister of Education.
His most notable role was as Minister of Transport, a position he held for 17 years until 2003. During his tenure, Dr Ling was pivotal in modernizing Malaysia's transport infrastructure, notably transforming Port Klang into a significant global transshipment hub, which considerably boosted Malaysia's standing in international trade. He also played a crucial role in developing Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), establishing it as the country's main gateway for international travelers.
As the sixth president of MCA from 1986 to 2003, Dr Ling strengthened the party's influence within Barisan Nasional and the broader political landscape of Malaysia. His contributions were not limited to politics; he also made significant strides in education and corporate sectors. He served as Chancellor of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and as Chairman of Kolej Tunku Abdul Rahman.
In recognition of his services, Dr Ling was awarded the Seri Setia Mahkota (SSM) in 2004, which carries the title 'Tun'. His legacy in politics, transport, and education continues to be remembered and celebrated by many across the nation.