The Malaysian Insight

FORMER Sarawak deputy chief minister Daniel Tajem, 82, has died at his home in Kuching today morning.

His widow, Ivy Tajem, said the former statesman died about 7am after complaining of breathing difficulties.

“We are very shocked over my husband’s sudden death because he had never had heart problems. He was diabetic but it was under control,” Bernama reported.

Daniel served as Sarawak deputy chief minister from March 23, 1981 until 1987 and was also former high commissioner to New Zealand.

Before he embarked on a political career by joining the Sarawak National Party (Snap) in 1973, he was the first Iban to become a lawyer after completing his degree at Victoria University in New Zealand.

Daniel later formed Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak with Leo Moggie in 1983 after they left Snap due to infighting.

He is survived by three children and seven grandchildren. – May 27, 2018.