Nancy Shukri pays tribute to close friend, respected thinker Madeline Berma
by Matthew Umpang · Borneo Post OnlineKUCHING (Dec 30): Dato Sri Nancy Shukri has expressed deep personal sorrow over the passing of Datuk Prof Dr Madeline Berma, remembering her as a close friend, trusted adviser and respected thinker who was deeply committed to the wellbeing of society.
In a Facebook post today, the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, who received news earlier today, described the loss as one that touched her heart, saying Madeline was a person who never grew weary of offering guidance and showing care for the community around her.
Madeline, 67, who is a prominent academic and community figure, breathed her last at 11.30am today at her residence in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor.
On a personal note, Nancy said she held Madeline in the highest esteem as an intellectual and scholar who consistently upheld the value of knowledge, opened spaces for dialogue on socio-economic development and inspired future generations.
She added that Madeline’s legacy extended well beyond her academic writings and research, encompassing her dedication to guiding communities, strengthening education and expanding opportunities for community development, particularly in Sarawak.
“Her contributions will continue to be remembered and will remain a source of inspiration to us all,” Nancy said.
The minister also conveyed her condolences to Madeline’s family, expressing hope that they would be granted strength and fortitude in facing the loss.
Madeline was a renowned economist and former Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) commissioner, widely respected for her work on poverty, human rights and indigenous issues, and for her lifelong advocacy for marginalised communities.