KUCHING: Tributes are pouring in from both national and state leaders following the passing of Pope Francis on Monday.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed his deepest sympathies to the Holy See and to Catholics around the world, especially the Catholic community in Malaysia, on behalf of the Malaysian government and its people.
In a heartfelt post on Facebook, Anwar recalled his visit to the Vatican during Pope Francis’s early days in office, expressing sorrow over the pontiff’s passing.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. He will be remembered not only as the first pope from the Global South, but as a moral voice of compassion, humility and justice in a turbulent world.
“His commitment to interfaith understanding, environmental stewardship and the dignity of the marginalised resonated far beyond the Catholic Church.
“Pope Francis was a steadfast advocate for peace, and his efforts to build bridges across faiths and cultures earned the respect of many, including in the Muslim world.
“He spoke with moral clarity on the immense suffering in Gaza, reminding the world that we must show the same compassion to all victims of violence, wherever they may be.
“He also championed the dignity of migrants and refugees, urging the international community to respond to their plight with humanity and conscience.
“May his legacy endure,” said Anwar in the posting.
Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian also extended his condolences to the Catholics community in Sarawak, Malaysia and worldwide.
“It is with profound sadness to learn of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. As a spiritual leader who championed compassion, humility and care for the marginalised, his influence extended far beyond the Catholic Church to touch people of all faiths and backgrounds.
“Pope Francis’s voice for peace and human dignity resonated across the world. His dedication — to building bridges between communities, championing environmental care, and commitment to social equity and justice — leave an enduring legacy.
“May he rest in peace, and may his memory inspire us all to continue working towards spreading peace, compassion and mutual respect,” said Dr Sim.
Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii added that Pope Francis’s life work in promoting justice, unity, and compassion had deeply impacted people around the world.
“Pope Francis’s legacy is one of mercy and love. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life dedicated to humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Catholic Church and everyone who mourns him. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Dr Yii.
Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after suffering a stroke and cardiac arrest, according to the Vatican.
