Kuala Lumpur: The Special Meeting of the Dewan Rakyat today conveyed its condolences to the family of Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who died last April 14 at the National Heart Institute (IJN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, in conveying the condolences, described Abdullah as a statesman and a great leader with a significant contribution to the country. He stated that Abdullah’s death is a considerable loss and deeply felt by all levels of society in Malaysia.

The Speaker then invited members of the Senate and the Parliament to stand, with Muslims reciting the Al-Fatihah and non-Muslims observing a minute of silence, in honor of the late Prime Minister.

The special sitting was convened at the request of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister intended to explain the government’s plans and measures to address the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States.

In his speech before commencing the session, the Prime Minister described Abdullah as a key figure who had initiated several early reforms, including those involving the Malaysian Parliament. He emphasized that Abdullah’s service to the country would continue to be remembered throughout history.

The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to Abdullah’s family, the people of Penang and Kepala Batas, highlighting that the country had paid its highest tribute to him with a state funeral. Abdullah’s remains were laid to rest at the Heroes’ Mausoleum at the National Mosque. Tun Abdullah, affectionately known as “Pak Lah,” died at the age of 85.