KUALA LUMPUR: The passing of former Melaka state executive councillor and MCA veteran Datuk Lai See Leong is a great loss to the party, the community, and the nation, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
The MCA president noted that Lai was a respected leader who dedicated his life to serving the people.
"His unwavering commitment to serving the community was evident from the moment he joined the party at the age of 20.
Week after week, he devoted his weekends to accompanying party members to the remote areas of Jasin and Alor Gajah, inspiring and assisting residents in their pursuit of citizenship," he said in a Facebook post on Wednesday (Dec 25).
Dr Wee expressed deep sadness over the news of Lai's passing on Tuesday (Dec 24) and, on behalf of the MCA central leadership, extended his heartfelt condolences to Lai’s family during this difficult time.
Wee recalled meeting Lai during the annual MCA Melaka state convention and described him as a familiar and warm presence, always eager to attend MCA events, large or small, and engage with members.
"What saddens me even more is that just a few weeks ago on Dec 6, Lai attended the Alor Gajah MCA Celebration Dinner at SJK(C) Machap. He listened intently to my speech and showed his unwavering dedication to the party until the very end," he added.
Wee also stated that Lai exemplified what it means to be a true leader.
Lai was elected as the Batang Melaka State Assemblyman in 1974 at the young age of 34 and served as a Melaka executive councillor from 1976 to 1978.