KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran Sabah politician Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, 66, Kinabatangan MP since 1999, was renowned for his fiery debates, daring calls, and unflinching stances that often drew both admiration and controversy.
Dubbed a parliamentary firebrand, Bung Moktar was famous for his loud, unrestrained style in the Dewan Rakyat, frequently engaging in shouting matches and heated arguments with fellow MPs. He never hesitated to voice his opinions, even when they provoked sharp criticism.
Admired for his bold and unwavering stances, Bung Moktar nonetheless earned a reputation as a polarising figure — celebrated by supporters for his courage and straightforwardness, yet criticised by opponents for crossing parliamentary decorum.
PKR‘s Subang MP Wong Chen, who first met him more than a decade ago, described him as a “controversial and colourful MP” in public, but “kind and friendly” in private.
“He always had a twinkle in his eye, and his jokes were sharp and funny. I shall miss him as a larger-than-life character in Parliament,” Wong wrote on Facebook.
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Bung Moktar died early Friday after being in critical condition from kidney failure and a severe lung infection.
In 2019, a Dewan Rakyat debate drew attention when DAP MP Lim Lip Eng criticised the Pakatan Harapan government for failing to honour pledges, including shutting down the Lynas rare earths plant in Gebeng, Pahang.
During the session, Bung Moktar praised the MP’s boldness, saying: “You’re the man.” His comments, coming from a senior Barisan Nasional lawmaker, drew approving nods from the opposition benches.
Bung Moktar was also no stranger to controversy.
Public records list numerous instances of sexist remarks, verbal outbursts, and crude language.
In 2008, he made a notorious “bocor” (“leak”) comment referencing menstruation during a parliamentary debate, an episode widely reported in local media.
On Aug 7, 2018, during a heated session, Bung Moktar reportedly shouted “F*** you” at a Pakatan Harapan MP after being accused of casino visits.
“Gangster,” he added. “You want to fight? F*** you.” Despite the uproar, he was asked to retract his statement, which he did, continuing to make headlines with his outspoken remarks.
Always elegantly dressed, Bung Moktar remained undeterred by criticism, taking daring stances on issues affecting Sabah and the nation.
His loyalty to his state and constituents, coupled with his larger-than-life persona, made him a recognisable figure across Malaysian politics.
He leaves behind a legacy of unflinching engagement and fiery parliamentary antics, remembered as a politician who stirred debate, inspired loyalty, and never shied from confrontation in service of his constituents.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
