Malaysia's ex-finance minister Daim Zainuddin dies at 86

An ally of former PM Mahathir, he played vital role in restructuring nation's economy

- Azril Annuar

Malaysia's former finance minister Daim Zainuddin died on Nov 13, aged 86.

He was admitted in October to Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya after suffering a stroke.

Tun Daim, whose full name was Che Abdul Daim Zainuddin, was a close ally of former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad, and had served two stints as the country's finance minister in the latter's Cabinet from 1984 to 1991 and from 1999 to 2001.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is in Peru to attend an Apec meeting, said in a social media posting: "My condolences to the family of the deceased. The government recognised his service and contribution to the country, especially when he was the minister of finance."

Tun Dr Mahathir said in a statement that he was inconsolable over the loss of his close friend.

"He should have been lauded for his contributions but at the end of his life, he was attacked for no reason. For no reason but vengeance!" said Dr Mahathir, referring to the ongoing graft probe into Mr Daim that was started after Datuk Seri Anwar became prime minister.