Table of Contents
Concerns over Taib Mahmud’s Well-being and Whereabouts
Family’s Worries and Allegations
The family of Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud expresses concern over his well-being and whereabouts. In a police report lodged by his brother, Datuk Mohammad Tufail Mahmud, at the Kuching central police station, it is claimed that Taib’s wife, Toh Puan Raghad Kurdi, is held “fully accountable and responsible” if anything happens to the 87-year-old.1
Tufail alleges that Taib was forcibly removed from the Normah Medical Specialist Centre in Kuching despite medical advice and without family consultation.
Urgent Investigation Demanded
The family urges police to urgently investigate the matter and protect Taib, expressing grave concerns about his health and safety.
Police Investigation and Denial
Police Confirmation and Investigation
The Kuching central police station confirms receiving the report and informs that the incident is being probed under Section 336 of the Penal Code, concerning negligence endangering lives.
Denial and Response
Raghad denies claims of taking Taib out of the hospital against medical advice. Earlier reports circulated, alleging Taib’s forceful removal from the hospital ICU by Raghad.
Background and Legal Disputes
Taib Mahmud’s Profile
Taib Mahmud, former Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri, served three terms from 2014 until January 2024.2
Legal Disputes and Family Matters
In November last year, Taib’s sons filed an injunction against Raghad over the transfer of shares, challenging the authenticity of their father’s signatures on documents involving share transfers.
Legacy of Abdul Taib Mahmud: A Political Titan
Abdul Taib Mahmud, renowned as one of Malaysia’s most influential politicians, left a lasting legacy upon his passing. As the Chief Minister of Sarawak for over three decades, Taib Mahmud shaped the political landscape, overseeing significant economic growth while grappling with environmental concerns and corruption allegations.
Unity Amidst Mourning: The Taib Mahmud Family Grieves
The passing of Abdul Taib Mahmud, the patriarch of the Taib Mahmud family, has left a profound void. Despite the controversies surrounding his legacy, the family unites in grief, mourning the loss of a beloved figure who wielded considerable political power and contributed to Sarawak’s development.
The Legacy of Laila Taib
Laila Taib, the First Wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud
Laila Taib, the first wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud, former Governor of Sarawak, Malaysia, played a significant role both in Mahmud’s personal life and his political career. Despite limited public information about her, she was known for her unwavering support for Mahmud throughout his years in politics.3
Her contributions to their family life and the upbringing of their children were pivotal. Her passing in 2009 due to cancer deeply affected Mahmud and their family.
Laila Taib: Beyond Wife and Mother
Laila Taib’s Enduring Influence
Laila Taib’s influence extended beyond her role as a wife and mother. She actively participated in charitable and community activities, leaving behind a legacy that is fondly remembered by those who knew her. Her contributions to her family and society continue to be cherished, emphasizing her significant impact on the wider social fabric of Sarawak.
The Controversy Surrounding Raghad Kurdi Taib
Raghad Kurdi Taib: Second Wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud
Raghad Kurdi Taib, the second wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud, married Mahmud in 2010 following the passing of his first wife, Laila, in 2009.
Their union was arranged by Raghad’s uncle, Robert Geneid, who is married to Taib’s sister, Raziah. Raghad’s acquisition of Malaysian citizenship, native-title lands, and voting rights sparked controversy and legal scrutiny due to the expedited process of her citizenship acquisition compared to other Sarawakian natives.
Raghad Kurdi Taib: A Marriage Shrouded in Controversy
Raghad Kurdi Taib’s marriage to Mahmud and the subsequent controversies surrounding her citizenship status have brought attention to broader issues of citizenship and wealth distribution in Malaysia.
While her exact role and influence within the family and Malaysian politics remain largely undocumented, her presence has underscored the complexities of power dynamics and familial relationships in Malaysian society.
Laila Taib: A Supportive Partner and Enduring Legacy
Laila Taib, the first wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud, played a crucial role in both his personal and political life.
Her supportive presence and contributions to family life and society are remembered fondly, leaving an enduring legacy despite her untimely passing.
Raghad Kurdi Taib: Controversies Surrounding the Second Wife
Raghad Kurdi Taib, the second wife of Abdul Taib Mahmud, entered the spotlight due to controversies surrounding her marriage and expedited acquisition of Malaysian citizenship.
Her presence within the Mahmud family underscores broader issues of citizenship and wealth distribution in Malaysian society, sparking legal scrutiny and public debate.
Investigation into Taib’s Family Wealth
Sarawak Report has received numerous requests to delve into the wealth of the extended Taib family, who are believed to live extravagant lifestyles funded by the Chief Minister.
Despite this, investigation seems unnecessary as they flaunt their riches openly on social media platforms. Thousands of followers witness their lavish lifestyle, prompting the need for wider exposure.
Extravagant Weddings of the Taib Family
This year, the Taib family indulged in extravagant events, including celebrations in Monaco, Kuala Lumpur, and Japan. However, the highlight was niece Elia Geneid’s lavish wedding to Swiss hotel manager Matthias Sutter in June.
Elia, daughter of Raziah, Taib Mahmud’s sister, has been involved in multiple high-cost weddings, including two cancelled engagements. The opulence displayed at these ceremonies, especially the VIP yacht wedding costing RM 3 million, raises eyebrows.
Elia’s Marital Journey
Elia’s marital journey reflects the family’s penchant for extravagance. Her first marriage in 2007, celebrated across expensive parties, ended in divorce within months.
Her recent wedding, the third in two and a half years, was attended by Malaysia’s top VIPs, excluding her former partners. Despite her tumultuous relationships, her mother Raziah, currently in her third marriage, remains unfazed.4
The Serenity of the Bride
Despite Elia’s colorful history, her serene demeanor during the latest wedding portrays resilience. Dressed in flowing white, she moves forward, leaving past incidents behind.
Kuala Lumpur l 21 Februari 2024 l Rabu
Mengiringi perjalanan terakhir Almarhum Ayahnda Tun Pehin Sri Hj Abdul Taib Mahmud di Kuala Lumpur mulai jam 7.30 pagi ini sehingga jenazah diterbangkan ke Kuching dari Pangkalan Udara TUDM Subang pada jam 1.58 petang ini. pic.twitter.com/VBaVD523f0
— Fadillah Yusof ???????? (@PetraJayaMP) February 21, 2024
Investigation into Taib’s Family Wealth
Background
Sarawak Report has been inundated with requests to investigate the extensive wealth of the Taib family, who purportedly sustain extravagant lifestyles courtesy of the Chief Minister’s resources. Despite the clamor for scrutiny, the family brazenly showcases their affluence on various social media platforms, rendering further investigation seemingly redundant.
Public Display of Wealth
The Taib family’s ostentatious lifestyle, readily exhibited to thousands of followers online, underscores the necessity for broader scrutiny and exposure.
Extravagant Weddings of the Taib Family
Multinational Celebrations
In recent times, the Taib family has orchestrated opulent events spanning various locales, including Monaco, Kuala Lumpur, and Japan. Among these celebrations, the wedding of Elia Geneid, niece of Taib Mahmud, to Swiss hotel manager Matthias Sutter in June stood out prominently.
Elia Geneid’s Wedding Saga
Elia, daughter of Raziah, Taib Mahmud’s sister, has been embroiled in multiple high-profile weddings, notably including two failed engagements. The exorbitance exhibited at these ceremonies, notably the VIP yacht wedding costing RM 3 million, has drawn considerable attention and scrutiny.
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Elia’s Marital Journey
Turbulent Romantic Entanglements
Elia’s marital history mirrors the family’s proclivity for extravagance. Her initial marriage in 2007, marked by lavish celebrations, swiftly ended in divorce mere months later. Notably, her recent wedding, the third within two and a half years, garnered attendance from Malaysia’s elite, conspicuously excluding her former partners.
Stoic Resilience
Despite the tumultuous nature of her relationships, Elia’s serene demeanor during her latest wedding reflects a resilience to past adversities. Draped in pristine white, she strides forward, symbolizing a departure from past experiences.
Biography of Taib Mahmud
Born on May 21, 1936, Taib Mahmud emerged as a prominent Malaysian statesman celebrated for his long-standing political career. He held esteemed positions such as the seventh Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak from March 2014 to January 2024 and the fourth Chief Minister of Sarawak from March 1981 to February 2014.
 Taib Mahmud’s Family
Taib Mahmud hailed from a family of ten siblings, including Ibrahim, Onn, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Arip, Mohammad Tufail, Aisah Zainab, Roziah, Faridah Hanon, and Zaleha. Each sibling contributed uniquely to the family’s legacy, forming a diverse yet connected tapestry of shared experiences.
Political Career and Affiliations
Taib Mahmud was associated with the Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) within the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition and belonged to the Melanau ethnic group. Throughout his career, he garnered affectionate nicknames such as “Pak Uban” and “Pek Moh” among various communities.
Legacy and Controversies
Assuming the role of Chief Minister at 45, Taib Mahmud’s leadership left a significant mark on Sarawak’s development. However, his tenure was marred by allegations of corruption and exploitation of state resources. His resignation in 2014 marked the end of an era, with his former brother-in-law succeeding him as Chief Minister.
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Announcement of State Funeral and Mourning Period
A state funeral is scheduled to honor the late Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, accompanied by a two-day mourning period starting today. The Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) has provided details regarding the funeral arrangements and the mourning period.
Funeral Arrangements
The body of Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud will be brought to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex tomorrow for public viewing from 8am to 11.30am. Subsequently, funeral prayers will be held at the Demak Mosque before the burial at the family’s cemetery in Demak Jaya.
Mourning Period
The Sarawak government has declared a two-day mourning period, during which all state flags will be flown at half-mast. Official events involving entertainment are to be postponed, and mosques and places of worship are encouraged to conduct prayers in honor of Tun Taib.
Arrival and Procession Details
The Sarawak Premier’s Office has provided information regarding the arrival and procession of Tun Taib’s remains, outlining the schedule and locations.
Arrival Schedule
Tun Taib’s body will be flown from Subang Airport in Kuala Lumpur, expected to arrive at the Royal Malaysian Air Force airbase in Kuching at around 3.30pm today.
Procession Details
Upon arrival, the body will be taken to Tun Taib’s residence in Demak Jaya, Jalan Bako. The procession route and timing are coordinated to facilitate public homage to the late former governor.
These arrangements aim to facilitate public participation in paying respects to Tun Taib Mahmud, honoring his legacy and contributions to the state of Sarawak.
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