TRIBUTE ABDUL - Perdana Library

MALIK BIN ABDUL RAHMAN
many of them, some containing massive criticisms arrayed
against him which demand all his resources to manoeuvre. He
once related to me that this was a bit too much for him at
the beginning, but gradually he got used to it. There is no
denying about his courage. The Tunku has proved that he has
got all what it takes to be a great Prime Minister. This early
morning routine normally lasts until 6.30 or 7.00 a.m., and from
now he would either go for a game of golf or do a little
gardening to keep himself fit and enjoy the fresh air.
The following hour is spent for a bath, dressing up, breakfast
and glancing at the newspapers. Then, after rattling off a
long shopping list of personal needs, he is soon off,—on his
way to office.
But this routine is not the same throughout. At times, he
would have to remain at the Residency much longer, as friends
and relatives like to take the first opportunity of discussing
matters with him before he goes to attend some official functions.
I can still remember a warm day in 1957 when I paid him
a visit at his private residence in Alor Star. He was on leave
and was supposed to relax. But there was never a dull moment
for him. Somebody from somewhere was always there waiting
to get an audience. He looked very tired, so much so that
when I popped in to greet him, he quickly remarked that he
was prepared to give me anything but time. Yes, he has less
and less time as the day goes on. And this is also the same
even for his beloved wife, Puan Sharifah Rodziah and family.
But no matter however occupied he was, the Tunku has never
on any occasion turned anybody away. I strongly believe that
this characteristic has brought him fame, love and respect. He
also told me how he would like to put aside his responsibilities
for a while and become an ordinary man. But again, this has
never been possible with the Prime Minister.
I have travelled far and wide and met different types of
people, but I must admit that the Tunku has something extra-
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