KUCHING – Senior figures from Sarawak gathered on Saturday morning to honour the late Dato Haji Nahrawi bin Abdul Rahman, who served as the Grand Imam of Sarawak from 2000 to 2009.
He passed away at the age of 74 at the Borneo Medical Centre on 25 April 2026, corresponding to 8 Zulkaedah 1447H.
His Excellency the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, visited the family residence in Kampung Demak Baru at 10.30 am to pay their respects.
They were received by Ustaz Helmi bin Nahrawi, the son of the deceased and Principal Assistant Director of the Corporate Communications Unit of JAIS, along with other family members.
The gathering was attended by several prominent leaders, including Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Also present were Member of Parliament for Tanjung Manis, Dato Ir Haji Yusuf bin Haji Abdul Wahab, former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Haji Mohd Jamil bin Haji Johari, Chief Syariah Judge of Sarawak Datu Haji Awang Suhaili bin Ledi, Private Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Dato Ahmad Hazlan bin Haji Ismawi, and Advisor to MINTRED Dato Sri Haji Naroden bin Majais.
Upon arrival, Tun Pehin Sri joined the funeral prayer led by Ustaz Helmi, alongside family members and guests.
The solemn ceremony reflected the deep respect held for Dato Haji Nahrawi, who was widely recognised for his contributions to religious leadership and community guidance during his tenure as Grand Imam.
Dato Haji Nahrawi’s leadership from 2000 to 2009 was marked by efforts to strengthen Islamic education and community unity across Sarawak.
His role as Grand Imam placed him at the forefront of religious affairs, where he was regarded as a guiding figure for the Muslim community.
Tun Pehin Sri and Toh Puan conveyed their condolences to the widow, Datin Hamdiah binti Sahmat, and the family.
They expressed their sorrow at the passing of a respected figure, offering prayers for strength and patience for the bereaved family.
“May the deceased Dato Haji Nahrawi bin Abdul Rahman be placed with those who believe and do good deeds,” they said.
The late Grand Imam leaves behind a legacy of dedication to faith and service to the people of Sarawak. His passing has been described as a significant loss to the community, with many recalling his commitment to fostering harmony and spiritual guidance.
As Sarawak mourns his departure, the memory of Dato Haji Nahrawi’s leadership and devotion continues to resonate among those who knew him and benefited from his work.
