Thursday, December 31, 2009

CONDOLENCES FROM NEIGHBOURS

The condolences from all over the world poured in. The latest is from Japan, Singapore and Malaysia.

Japan's Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak, and U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron R Hume conveyed on Thursday their condolences to the family of the late former Indonesian president Abdurrahman "Gus Dur" Wahid.

Yukio Hatoyama said in a press statement that Gus Dur was a great leader who has promoted reform in Indonesia and improved ties between Indonesia and Japan.

Meanwhile, Lee Hsien Loong said Gus Dur would be remembered as an upholder of moderate Islam and a defender of the minorities.

"He will be missed by his many friends in Indonesia and abroad. Indonesia has lost one of its respected leaders," Lee said in a statement.

Two former Singapore's prime ministers, Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong, and Singapore President S.R. Nathand also sent their condolences to Gus Dur's family.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razad said in his blog www.1malaysia.com.my: ""Gus Dur's impact on shaping Indonesia cannot be understated. Both statesman and scholar, he strove to bring about change and reform that embodied Islamic values."

U.S. Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron R. Hume said as quoted by Kompas.com that Gus Dur had many admirers in the U.S and he would be remembered for his good heart, tolerance, commitment to uphold human right and democracy.

Gus Dur died on Wednesday. The world will remember him for his effort to transform the democracy in Indonesia.

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