Last night (23rd July), it was announced that the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister, Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, had just passed away. Previously, it had been revealed that the minister had been suffering from a cerebral hemorrhage.
Many have since been mourning Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub’s passing, including fellow politicians such as Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Lim Guan Eng (林冠英), Hannah Yeoh (杨巧双), Chow Kon Yeow (曹观友), Syed Saddiq and others.
A few days ago, Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub had reportedly been rushed to the hospital after he suffered an aneurysm. He was then diagnosed with cerebral hemorrhage. On Saturday (22nd July), the minister was confirmed to have undergone surgery at the Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar and was in the ICU.
Unfortunately, his daughter, Fatihah Salahuddin, announced his passing a day later around 9pm. “We regretfully inform (you) that our head of family, Salahuddin Ayub has passed away at 9.23pm, 23rd July 2023,” she stated. Her post soon garnered condolences from many, including our local politicians.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was one of the first few to publicly express his sorrow over losing Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub. “On a personal note, this is a huge loss to myself and my family,” he stated. “Brother Salahuddin has stood firm together in a long struggle till the end of his life. His service and kindness cannot be repaid with material goods.”
The Prime Minster added: “He was known for (being amiable), be it to his friends or those against him. He was a strong figure who worked hard and (valued) trust and responsibility. Rest well, my friend.” He also hoped the minister’s family would be granted patience as they grieved his loss.
Penang and Democratic Action Party (DAP) politician Lim Guan Eng too added a few words on his socials. “Nothing can express my sorrow at the passing of my friend and brother in arms, Salahuddin Ayub. His stature and service have sowed seed for this country’s future. My condolences to his family, may they be patient in facing this trial,” he said.
Penang Chief Minister and Batu Kawan MP, Chow Kon Yeow shared that the last time he had met Datuk Seri Salahuddin was last week, during a launch at Pulau Pinang. He too offered his condolences to his family, adding: “(I) only received news of my friend, Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub’s passing on the way back from Pulau Pinang after a meeting there.”
“You left us so early, sir. Allah swt must have better plans for you,” Muar MP Syed Saddiq stated on his socials. “Your (kindness) will always be remembered.” Syed Saddiq also only had good things to say about the late minister. “Before I even asked for help, he would call me up to offer it first,” Syed Saddiq recalled. “Truly an amazing person. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh was another who took to her socials to pen a long and heartfelt message after losing her friend. Hannah listed several moments where he had proven their friendship, from defending her in Parliament meetings to asking for her insight. “I told him multiple times that I would never forget the kindness he showed to me,” she added.
“In a nation where race and religion become political tools for some politicians to divide voters, I am forever grateful to God for giving me a friend like Salahuddin,” Hannah shared. “Through Salahuddin’s life, I experienced the kindness and provision of God. Salahuddin understood my love and my faith in the Almighty. God hath provided me such a friend.”
The 62-year-old minister’s final post on Friday (21st July) showed his dedication to his country, and his love for its people. His body has since been transferred to his hometown, Kampung Serkat, where many have gone to pay their last respects, and he will be buried today at 12pm.
We too would like to express our condolences to Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub’s family and pray they, and those who knew him, will find peace in his passing.
