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SABAH and the nation woke to the sad news early this morning of the passing of Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, a towering figure in state and national politics, at a private hospital in Kota Kinabalu at 1:46am.
The 66-year-old Sabah Barisan Nasional (BN) Chairman and Kinabatangan Member of Parliament was widely recognised for his outspoken advocacy on behalf of his constituents, championing rural development, infrastructure, and community welfare throughout his long political career.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described Bung Moktar as “a true friend who was close to his heart.”
In a Facebook post today, the UMNO president reflected on Bung Moktar’s unwavering loyalty, calling him a steadfast comrade who stood by him through both good times and adversity.
“It is difficult for me to find the words to describe this loss. All that remains are prayers, along with the memories and all the good he has left behind in this world,” he wrote.
Zahid extended his condolences to Bung Moktar’s family, praying that they be granted strength, patience, and peace during this difficult period.
Former Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Dahlan described the late MP as “a hero for all political fighters” and expressed deep personal grief.
“In our hearts, you are still a hero to us… Al-Fatihah to a fighter,” he wrote, adding that he was left speechless by the news in the early hours of a blessed morning.
Rahman also offered prayers for Bung Moktar’s soul and conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved family.
Presidents and leaders across the state paid tribute, including Parti Warisan chief Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, who recalled shared memories with Bung Moktar dating back to their youth in UMNO Sabah.
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi roji’un. I received the sad news that my old friend, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, has returned to Allah’s mercy.
“We share a long history since his days as Sabah UMNO Youth Information Chief and mine as Youth Chief at the time. I extend my condolences to his wife, children, and entire family,” he wrote, praying for the deceased’s soul to be blessed and forgiven.
Datuk Dr Aliakbar Gulasan, PAS Sabah Commissioner, also expressed sorrow at the loss, describing Bung Moktar’s passing as a profound loss for the state. “May Allah grant patience to the family and shower mercy and forgiveness on his soul,” he wrote.
Born on 15 September 1959 in Sukau, Kinabatangan, Bung Moktar held a Master of Philosophy in Policy Analysis and Security from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
His career in public service began at the Sandakan Department of Special Affairs (1987–1991), followed by MARA Sandakan (1991–1992) and as Political Secretary at the Sabah Ministry of Finance (1994–1999).
He was first elected as Kinabatangan MP in 1999 and served six consecutive terms, while also holding leadership roles in UMNO at both the division and national levels, including membership of the UMNO Supreme Council and Deputy Chairmanship of the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers’ Club.
He won the Lamag State Assembly seat in the 16th Sabah State Election in 2020 and was subsequently appointed Deputy Chief Minister and Sabah Minister of Works, successfully defending Lamag in the recent 17th Election by a narrow margin.
Beyond politics, Bung Moktar served as Chairman of FELCRA Berhad and as President of the Sabah Football Association (SAFA). He is survived by his wives, Datin Seri Nor Asidah Alimuddin and Datin Seri Zizie Izette Abdul Samad, and seven children.
His passing has left a deep void in Sabah’s political landscape, with leaders and citizens alike mourning the loss of a committed and principled advocate for the people. - December 5, 2025