KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 — The Malaysian government and its people today conveyed their deepest sympathies and condolences to the government and the people of South Africa on the demise of former president Nelson Mandela.

A statement issued by the Foreign Ministry following the passing of Mandela, said his demise was a great loss not only to South Africa and the African continent, but also to the world.

“The late president Nelson Mandela will be deeply missed for his influence and contribution in the fight for equality, humanity and reconciliation.

“His strength of character, perseverance and leadership qualities befit the challenging times that South Africa had faced during the struggle against the apartheid regime and the pursuit of independence of South Africa,” the statement said.

It said the government and Malaysians also extended their heartfelt feelings of profound sympathy to the late Mandela’s family as they grieve their personal loss.

“All Malaysians hope that Mandela’s bereaved family, as well as the people of the Republic of South Africa will be given the strength to face this period of mourning,” it said.

According to the statement, Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, and Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili will represent the government in paying its final respects on Mandela.

Mandela, 95, passed away at his home in Johannesburg last night after battling a prolonged lung infection.

Paying his tribute for Mandela, Global Movement of Moderates Foundation chairman Tan Sri Razali Ismail said the former would be a great inspiration for the world.

“Mandela has left behind a legacy of freedom, equality and reconciliation that is incomparable, dedicated as he was to advancing democratic principles and social justice not only within his own country but also far beyond its borders,” he said in a statement.

Razali said that Madiba, as Mandela was often fondly referred to, had worked tirelessly to show how rational optimism, the willingness to forgive and a commitment against acts of vengeance, could be powerful instruments in bringing an end to oppression and tyranny.

“The GMM would like to honour the memory of Nelson Mandela, whose courage, determination and compassion managed to transform the world for the better, and will remain a lasting source of inspiration for many generations to come,” he said.

Meanwhile, Gerakan also expressed its condolences to the South African government and its people on the passing of Mandela.

“Nelson Mandela was a great leader and certainly one of the most outstanding statesmen of our time.

“His courageous and inspiring fight against institutionalised racism, poverty and inequality, and fostering racial reconciliation will forever be remembered by our current world society and for many generations to come,” said its president Datuk Mah Siew Keong in a statement. — Bernama