KUCHING: The passing of Datuk Dr Madeline Berma has drawn tributes from national leaders, with Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof describing her as a highly respected scholar whose contributions helped shape national policy thinking.
In a press statement today (Dec 30), Fadillah said Madeline’s passing marked a profound loss to Sarawak and Malaysia, particularly in the fields of academia and economic policy.
“Sarawak and Malaysia have lost a distinguished scholar and an exceptional economic thinker who was highly regarded,” he said.
Fadillah cited the late academician had devoted her entire professional life to national development and the well-being of the people.
He added the late Madeline made significant contributions through her extensive research in economic development, public policy, poverty and social inequality, which played an important role in shaping national discourse and policy direction.
“Her views and research findings were frequently referred to not only within academic circles, but also by policymakers at the national level,” he said.
Fadillah pointed out that throughout her service as a professor at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and her leadership at the Institute of Malaysian and International Studies (IKMAS), Madeline strengthened the country’s intellectual discourse, produced many scholars and guided generations of policymakers with knowledge grounded in social justice and shared prosperity.
“Her passing is a major loss not only to the academic world, but also to Sarawak and the nation as a whole. However, her service, knowledge and intellectual legacy will continue to live on and serve as a guide for future generations,” he said, extending his condolences to the bereaved family.
