Sabah DAP leaders shocked over passing of their chief
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Democratic Action Party (DAP) leaders were shocked at the sudden death of their chairman, Datuk Stephen Wong Tien Fatt yesterday.
Wong, who was Sandakan Member of Parliament (MP) and Minister of Health and People's Wellbeing, had been described as a fighter and mentor.
Sabah DAP deputy chairman Datuk Frankie Poon said the news came as a shock to the party.
“Although I am not with him everyday, I know the way he fights for the people.”
The Minister of Youth and Sports said the party leaders would meet and give a press statement on Wong's funeral arrangement today (March 29).
Sabah DAP advisor Datuk Jimmy Wong Sze Phin said: “Our thoughts are with his wife and family. Of course, DAP is a great loss and to the state government, he's a cabinet minister. It is all unexpected because it all happened suddenly,” Jimmy said.
“In fact, Datuk Stephen has been very active. Try to do his best for his ministry but sometimes unfortunately that happened.
“Words are so difficult to say, I hope that the family really take care and our thoughts are with you, our prayers are with you. That is what I want to say because it is beyond any words to mention at this moment.
Meanwhile, Sabah DAP publicity secretary Phoong Jin Zhe, who is also Political Secretary to the Minister of Health and People's Wellbeing, was supposed to fly to Kuala Lumpur yesterday morning but instead rushed to the hospital upon hearing the news.
“I am speechless. I am extremely shocked.
“He was a fighter, my mentor, my family, my fatherly figure.
“He had taught me a lot of things and I do really appreciate all the things he had taught me.”
Phoong, who is also Luyang assemblyman, said he last spoke to Wong on Wednesday.
Phoong said he was in the midst of preparing a speech on Constitutional amendment for Wong to be tabled in the Parliament next week.
“I hope Sabahans will remember him.
“He was fearless and courageous even in front of DAP ministers in order to fight for what he wanted for Sandakan and Sabah.”
Phoong also called on DAP supporters to remain calm as they mourn the loss of Wong.
He said the Ministry of Health and People's Wellbeing would release a statement on the incident.