Gerawat loses dear friend with Mutang’s passing

MIRI: Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala has paid a heartfelt tribute to his old friend Datuk Mutang Tagal.

He recalled how both of them had shared a deep bond that traced back to their college days in the 1970’s at Kolej Tuanku Haji Bujang in Tanjong Lobang, Miri and continued through their studies at the University of Malaya’s Law faculty.

Their journey didn’t end with academia.

“After graduation, we both ventured into the realm of banking before transitioning to legal practice, navigating our professional lives side by side,” he told a group of local media after chairing a meeting on Mutang’s funeral arrangements on Saturday here.

Gerawat vividly recounted the pivotal moment in 1982 when Mutang embarked on a political journey, standing as a candidate for Bukit Mas (Lawas) with Gerawat’s unwavering support, even assisting him on nomination day.

Tears welled in Gerawat’s eyes as he recalled the profound camaraderie they had.

Reflecting on Mutang’s tenure as Bukit Mas MP for two terms, Gerawat emphasised the dedication and passion with which his friend served, earning him the admiration and respect of many.

Highlighting Mutang’s broader contributions, Gerawat noted his brief yet impactful stint as Senate president in Parliament, a position he held for four months before his untimely passing. Mutang, 70,  passed away on May 10, shortly after being hospitalised at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur since May 6.