Malaysian minister Salahuddin Ayub dies, PM Anwar mourns 'huge loss'
Salahuddin Ayub, who also served as the Amanah deputy president, died after surgery for a brain haemorrhage.
MALAYSIA — Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub died on Sunday (23 July) following surgery, after being warded for a brain haemorrhage.
According to his press secretary, Salahuddin, 61, was admitted to the emergency ward at Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, Kedah, around 10.15pm on Friday.
The minister had been suffering from nausea and vomiting, and was later diagnosed with a brain haemorrhage by a specialist.
In a Facebook post, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim called Salahuddin's death a "huge loss" for him and his family.
The PM said that he was affected by the sad news, emphasising that the services rendered by Salahuddin, who also served as the Amanah deputy president, could never be "materially repaid".
"He was known for being of an esteemed character, be it to his friends or foes—a strong figure who works and is very obedient to trust and responsibility. Rest now, my friend," wrote Anwar.
Anwar informed of Salahuddin's death during event
Bernama reported that the Prime Minister learnt about Salahuddin's death while giving a speech at the Madani Unity Tour and launching a programme in Kelantan.
During his speech, Anwar highlighted Salahuddin's unwavering dedication to his ministerial responsibilities.
The late minister had been a trusted figure and had served alongside Anwar for decades, the PM said.
He was praised for his hard work and efficient management of the Rahmah Sale Programme, which aimed to reduce the cost of living for Malaysians.
Salahuddin's commitment to the cause saw him travel across the country to achieve this goal, added Anwar.
First entering parliament in 2004 in Kubang Kerian, Salahuddin won his Pulai parliamentary seat and Simpang Jeram state seat in 2018 under Anwar's coalition.
He also previously served as Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister for Pakatan Harapan before the government's collapse in February 2020.
He was appointed to his current post after defending his seats in both the state election earlier in 2022, and the 15th general election on 19 Nov last year.
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