Family, friends pay last respects to late economist and Suhakam commissioner Dr Madeline Berma

KUCHING (Jan 3): Family members, relatives and friends gathered to attend the memorial service of the late Dato Dr Madeline Berma, a renowned economist and former Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) commissioner, who passed away at the age of 67.

The memorial service, conducted in Iban, was held at St Paul’s Church, Siol Kandis here and led by Reverend Father Johnson Lapok. She was later laid to rest at Kubur SDNU, Siol Kandis on Saturday.

During the service, Dr Madeline’s second-born brother, John Berma, expressed his appreciation on behalf of the family to all those who attended.

“I have little to say, other than to apologise if she ever made any mistakes in her lifetime,” he said.

She was known for her advocacy on poverty, human rights and Native Customary Rights, and for her direct engagement with marginalised communities through Suhakam Bersama Masyarakat.

Born on May 5, 1958, the late Dr Madeline passed away on Dec 30, 2025. She was the eldest of three siblings, with two younger brothers, John, 58, and Sekeries Berma, 53.

Her legacy endures through her unwavering commitment to social justice, inclusive development and the protection of fundamental human rights, leaving a lasting impact on policy discourse and grassroots advocacy alike.