In his words: lessons from Pak Lah’s most memorable quotes

Former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi died on Monday at age 85. (Facebook pic)PETALING JAYA: When Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, affectionately known as Pak Lah, led Malaysia, his wasn’t the loudest voice in the room. On the contrary – his was often the calmest.In an era of booming rhetoric and political drama, Pak Lah is known to have stood apart with his soft-spoken manner and steady presence. While others might have sought the spotlight, he focused quietly on service – letting his actions and, often, his carefully chosen words speak volumes.A man of deep faith and quiet conviction, Abdullah’s words didn’t just echo in Parliament – they lingered in the hearts of Malaysians who saw in him a kind, steady hand.As we remember his legacy, many of his quotes remain relevant. They remind us of the values often overlooked in a fast-paced world: patience, integrity, kindness, and living with purpose.Here are some of his most memorable lines on Malaysia and being Malaysian – including what may be his most well-known quote, coming in at lucky No. 7.Abdullah, pictured here in his younger years, believed Malaysian youth would lead the country to greater heights. (Galeri Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi pic)1. “We can agree on one thing: that we love this blessed land. We love its diversity and its eccentricities. This is the only country we have, the only place where we feel truly at home, and we want it to succeed. So let us begin with fairness, responsibility and self-belief.” (Source: Malaysian Bar)2. “I likened Malaysia to a tapestry earlier, and I think this image fits with our philosophy on culture. We, each of us, are a thread making up a larger design, but look closely enough and you will see that each thread still retains its own qualities.” (Source: Malaysian Bar)3. “A true Malaysian understands the impact of careless words and actions. A true Malaysian is aware of who will be provoked into retaliation and who will actually suffer the consequences. Because of this, a true Malaysian will try to be judicious in word and deed, even when striving for change.” (Source: Malaysian Bar)4. “Our youth are like unpolished gemstones. They will inherit our nation and will determine its fortunes in the years ahead. They must possess intellectual capacity, knowledge and culture. They must possess physical well-being and strong morals. Our youth must be prepared to lead our nation to greater heights.” (Source: Malaysian Bar)5. “We must work together so that we can overcome our weaknesses. It is easy to break a single bamboo but difficult to break a cluster of bamboos.” (Source: Malaysia Today)6. “I find it heartwarming to see that in general, Malaysians have not forgotten those who are less fortunate and in need. Society cannot be perfect, but society can certainly care for those who are less fortunate. We can try, in our own humble way, to make their lives better.” (Source: Perdana Leadership Foundation)7. “We do not want a situation in Malaysia where we have first-class facilities or infrastructure, but a third-class mentality.” (Source: IAIS Malaysia)

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In his words: lessons from Pak Lah’s most memorable quotes

Former prime minister Abdullah Badawi, who passed away on Monday, proved that with simple wisdom and gentle strength, leadership can come with grace.

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