KUCHING: Sarawak is mourning the passing of a towering intellectual figure whose lifelong dedication to social justice and economic development left an enduring imprint on the nation.
The late Datuk Dr Madeline Berma, a distinguished economist and academician, was widely regarded as one of Malaysia’s most influential thinkers on development, poverty eradication, and indigenous rights.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Datuk Snowdan Lawan, described her passing as a profound loss to Sarawak and the nation.
“Dato Dr Madeline Berma was one of Sarawak’s greatest minds, whose legacy will take decades to emulate and resurface, particularly among the indigenous Iban community,” he said in a press statement today.
Snowdan, who shared ancestral roots with the late Madeline in Banting, Sri Aman Division, said her achievements were a source of pride, especially for the local Iban community and Sarawak at large.
“I have lost a close relative who hailed from the same area as my ancestors. She was truly the pride of our community,” he said.
Throughout her career, Madeline was a steadfast advocate for eradicating rural poverty and protecting Native Customary Rights land across Malaysia.
“She was fearless in championing issues affecting marginalised communities, especially indigenous peoples whose voices were often unheard in mainstream development discourse,” Snowdan added.
Her leadership at the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) was widely described as a protective shield for marginalised and vulnerable indigenous communities.
“Through SUHAKAM, her hands-on leadership safeguarded indigenous rights and ensured justice remained central to national policy discussions,” he said.
Madeline’s extensive empirical research and field-based studies significantly influenced policy planning, particularly in addressing structural poverty and land rights challenges.
“Her research contributions were invaluable to the state, providing evidence-based guidance for development planning and social intervention strategies,” he said.
In recognition of her expertise, she was appointed to the Sarawak Economic Action Council (SEAC), shaping post-pandemic recovery strategies.
“She played a critical role in formulating Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 and contributing ideas for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP),” he said.
Snowdan said Sarawak has lost a rare intellect whose impact transcended academia and directly benefited grassroots communities.
“Today, Sarawak grieves the loss of one great contributory mind. Her contributions were immense, and her legacy will undoubtedly prevail,” he said.
He extended heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
“Our sincere prayers remain with her family. May her remarkable legacy continue to inspire future generations,” he added.
