Abdul Rahman Ya'kub, Malaysian lawyer and politician, 3rd Chief Minister of Sarawak (d. 2015)

Tun Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman bin Ya'kub (3 January 1928 – 9 January 2015) was a highly influential and distinguished Malaysian politician. A native of Mukah, Sarawak, he was of Melanau descent, an indigenous ethnic group prominently found in the coastal regions of Sarawak. His extensive political career saw him ascend to the highest echelons of state leadership, marking him as a pivotal figure in Sarawak's modern history.

He held the significant position of the third Chief Minister of Sarawak, serving from 7 July 1970 to 26 March 1981. As Chief Minister, he was the head of government for the state, responsible for directing state policies, administration, and development initiatives, playing a crucial role in shaping Sarawak's socio-economic landscape during a formative period. His leadership during this era laid much of the groundwork for subsequent progress within the state.

Following his tenure as Chief Minister, Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub was appointed the fourth Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, the ceremonial Head of State, a role he fulfilled from 26 March 1981 to 2 April 1985. In this esteemed capacity, he acted as the constitutional monarch, representing the state and performing various ceremonial duties, further solidifying his enduring legacy in Sarawakian governance.

Notably, Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub was also the uncle of Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who succeeded him as Chief Minister of Sarawak. This familial connection stems from the fact that his eldest-born sibling was Hajah Hamidah Ya'akub (b.1916 - d.2006), the mother of Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, establishing a significant lineage within Sarawak's political landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tun Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman Ya'kub

Who was Tun Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman bin Ya'kub?

Tun Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Rahman bin Ya'kub was a prominent Malaysian politician of Melanau descent from Mukah, Sarawak. He is renowned for his roles as the third Chief Minister of Sarawak and the fourth Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Sarawak.

What were his primary political roles in Sarawak?

He served as the Chief Minister of Sarawak from 1970 to 1981, holding the executive power as the head of the state government. Subsequently, he became the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak (Governor), the ceremonial head of state, from 1981 to 1985.

What is his familial relationship with Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud?

Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub was the uncle of Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud. This relationship is through his eldest sister, Hajah Hamidah Ya'akub, who was Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud's mother.

When did Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub live?

He was born on 3 January 1928 and passed away on 9 January 2015.

What was his ethnic background and place of origin?

Tun Abdul Rahman Ya'kub was of Melanau descent, an indigenous ethnic group in Sarawak, and hailed from Mukah, a coastal town in Sarawak.