KUCHING: Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, has described the passing of renowned economic analyst Associate Professor Dato Dr Madeline Berma as a profound loss for the state.

He stated that Sarawak has lost an economic "princess" who dedicated her extensive expertise to strengthening the state's economic future.

"Sarawak has lost one of its finest daughters, someone who contributed her professional knowledge to ensure a robust economic future for the state," the Premier said in a statement on Tuesday, following the news of her passing.

The Premier noted that the late Dr Madeline was a distinguished member of the Sarawak Economic Action Council (SEAC).

Established in 2020 and chaired by the Premier himself, the council was formed to drive Sarawak’s post-COVID-19 economic exit strategy towards 2030, as outlined in the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030).

On behalf of the SEAC, the Premier expressed his deepest condolences to the family of Dato Dr Madeline, who passed away at the age of 64 at her residence in Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor, at 11:30 am on Tuesday.

Originally from Kuching, she was a pre-eminent economist whose significant contributions to economic development were felt both in Sarawak and at the national level.

According to her nephew, Basil Cliffton Calvert, Dato Dr Madeline’s remains will be flown back to Kampung Siol Kandis, Kuching, for the funeral arrangements. -UKASnews