A Loss That Cannot Be Replaced

The passing of Professor Datuk Seri Dr. Kamarudin Kachar is a loss that is hard to replace. The late Dr. Kamarudin had an illustrious career, having served as the Dean of Education at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Deputy Vice-Chancellor, and Acting Vice-Chancellor of UPM, before being appointed as the Director General of the National Civics Bureau. He also served as the Director of Education at the Mara Education Foundation, Dean of Education at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, and Vice-Chancellor of Unisel.

In conversations with those who knew him, I was struck by the stories shared by his former students. According to one former UPM student, Dr. Kamarudin was known for his strict discipline and would not tolerate seeing Malay students loitering around the cafeteria walls. As soon as they spotted him, they would scatter to avoid his reproach. For Dr. Kamarudin, discipline and commitment as a student were paramount.

His early life was marked by hardship. He would cycle 32 miles daily to school in Singapore, striving to change his fate. This perhaps explains why he could not condone idleness among the youth. The suffering he experienced, including the cruelty of the Japanese soldiers, shaped his understanding and appreciation of the nation’s struggles, a cause long championed by earlier leaders.

Known affectionately as Abang Long, he often urged unity and cooperation among the Malay community, emphasizing that this would strengthen their spirit and identity. As President of the Malaysian Professional Malay Thinkers Association (PPPMM), he advocated for Malays to be brave, assertive, strategic, and forward-thinking.

“Malays must fight tirelessly and rise to defend our rights in Malaysia. This is not about racism; it is about protecting our religion, race, and culture. Never say that Malays are weak.” Such words continually inspire the younger generation to stay vigilant and committed to the right path.

Despite his resolute nature and forthright speech, many perceived him as overly stern and unapproachable. However, from our experiences in the Malaysian Malay Consultative Council (MPMM), we knew him as a friendly, approachable person who was always willing to offer advice and engage in discussions. He was cheerful, humorous, and enjoyed playful banter.

Dr. Kamarudin exemplified how a village boy could achieve greatness through strong self-identity and a life philosophy of striving for success, contributing to society, fostering unity, and serving others. His efforts to motivate, uplift, and elevate the thinking of the Malay community must continue. Those he mentored and inspired should remember his words: “Those who have achieved success must not become complacent but should help those in need and never neglect others.”

It is imperative to continue his legacy and ensure that his vision for programs like the “Lahirkan Sejuta Zaaba” and the establishment of the Universiti Melayu Maori Polinesia in New Zealand does not fade away. The foundation has been laid; it is up to us to build upon it.

Our nation has lost an extraordinary leader who was committed to defending his principles. On behalf of the Malaysian Malay Consultative Council, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Professor Datuk Seri Dr. Kamarudin Kachar. May his soul be blessed by Allah. Al-Fatihah.