Loke, who is also transport minister, said Ling had served as the country’s longest-serving transport minister from 1986 to 2003, Bernama reported.

He said Ling laid the key foundations for the country’s transport infrastructure, including the development of Westports and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas.

“Westports, which forms part of Port Klang alongside Northport, was developed during Tun Ling’s tenure and has since grown into one of the world’s major transshipment hubs and among the most important container ports globally.

“PTP, which was also developed under his leadership, has likewise evolved into one of the leading ports in the world,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Loke added that the development of KLIA was initiated during Ling’s tenure and continues to serve as the nation’s primary aviation gateway.

Recalling his last visit to Ling on Nov 4 last year, Loke described it as a deeply moving moment that reflected the late leader’s enduring pride in his contributions to the nation.

Loke said he had presented Ling with a commemorative photograph of Westports in recognition of Port Klang being ranked among the world’s top 10 busiest ports.

“Due to his health condition at the time, he was unable to express himself in words. Nevertheless, his expression and tears reflected a deep sense of pride in what had been built under his leadership,” he said.

Despite political differences, Loke said he had always held Ling in high regard for his resilience and lasting contributions to Malaysia’s transportation system.

Ling, a former MCA president, died yesterday at the age of 82. He is survived by his wife, Ong Ee Nah, and two sons, Hee Leong and Hee Keat.