Wan Junaidi pays last respects to late Datuk Dr Madeline Berma

by · Borneo Post Online
Wan Junaidi (third right) and Fauziah (second right) pay their last respects on Thursday. – Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING (Jan 1): Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar on Thursday paid his last respects to the late Datuk Dr Madeline Berma at her family residence in Kampung Siol Kandis.

He was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, during the visit to personally extend their condolences to Dr Madeline’s family.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, Wan Junaidi conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to her loved ones, describing her passing as a great loss to the nation, particularly in the fields of academia, economic planning and social development.

Nur Amni speaking to reporters while recalling her memories of the late economist. – Photo by Chimon Upon

Wan Junaidi and his wife also expressed their hope that the family would be granted strength, resilience and peace in facing this difficult and sorrowful time.

Meanwhile, Dr Madeline’s first cousin, Nur Amni Amelia Abdullah, 44, described her as a humble yet firm individual who was like a mother figure to the family.

She added that whenever the late Dr Madeline was in Kuching, she would always make time to be with her family.

“She was very humble but firm, and to us she was like a mother figure. One piece of advice she said she would always remember was when the late Dr Madeline told me, ‘don’t judge a person based on their appearance,’” she said.

Another cousin, Calvert Brayan, 60, said he last met Dr Madeline three weeks ago when she attended his daughter’s convocation in Kuala Lumpur.

Calvert speaking to reporters at the wake. – Photo by Chimon Upon

“She told me to take care of her sister and the family. She was always someone who helped family members whenever she could,” he said.

Describing her passing as a great loss to the family, he said that whenever Dr Madeline was in Kuching, she would call him to have a meal at her favourite place in Padungan.

“She would always call me to have a meal there to enjoy her favourite laksa. I have always supported her in her work as well,” he said, adding that the place held many fond memories for them.

Her passing marks the loss of a tireless advocate whose work bridged economic research and human dignity, particularly for marginalised and indigenous communities in the nation.

condolences funeral lead Madeline Berma Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar