Former Transport Minister and MCA honorary life president Ling Liong Sik was honoured in a solemn wake ceremony held today at the Xiao En Centre.
The tribute began at noon, with family members, party leaders and members of the public paying their final respects through floral offerings and prayers. A montage showcasing his life and contributions to the nation was also presented to attendees.
MCA president Wee Ka Siong led the delegation of party leaders, joined by deputy president Mah Hang Soon and secretary-general Chong Sin Woon.
Dr Ling, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 82, leaves behind his wife Toh Puan Ong Ee Nah and their two sons. He remains one of Malaysia’s longest-serving Cabinet members, having led the Transport Ministry for 17 years from 1986 to 2003.
Wee described him as a visionary statesman whose leadership helped shape the nation’s infrastructure, particularly in the development of ports, aviation and rail systems. His role in advancing major projects, including Westports and railway expansion initiatives, was widely recognised.
Beyond infrastructure, Dr Ling also made a lasting impact in education, contributing to the establishment of institutions such as Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, which have since produced thousands of graduates.
A coffin-sealing ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow at 4pm, with his casket to be draped in the MCA flag as a mark of the party’s highest honour. His remains will be cremated at the Xiao En Crematorium on Wednesday.
