The ‘father of Malaysia from Sabah’, through his son’s eyes

Asgari Stephens, the son of Malaysia's "father of Malaysia from Sabah," Fuad Stephens, shared memories of his father with FMT Lifestyle. Fuad, a doting parent who valued education and gave back to the community, made an effort to be home for dinner with his family despite a busy schedule. As a loving father, he also organized picnics and family outings by the sea.

Born on September 14, 1920, in Kudat, Sabah, Fuad would have celebrated his 106th birthday just two days before Malaysia Day this year. Known as the "father of Malaysia from Sabah," he played a key role in the negotiations leading to Malaysia's formation and became Sabah's first chief minister. To Asgari, Fuad was a devoted parent who prioritized education and encouraged honesty and community service.

Despite his demanding career, Fuad always made time for his family, including regular picnics and beach days. The warmth of his personality extended beyond his home, allowing him to connect easily with villagers and heads of state. Fluent in Malay, English, and several Chinese dialects, Fuad even helped others write letters to authorities in English.

Of Eurasian-Kadazan heritage, Fuad and his family converted to Islam in 1971, and his family regarded him as their "Huguan Siou" (paramount leader) within the Kadazan community. In his will, Fuad expressed his best wishes for the Kadazan people. As a veteran venture capitalist and angel investor, Asgari reflected on his father's hopes for Sabah, which included a more inclusive and meritocratic society.

However, Fuad remained cautious about Sabah's independence due to its heavy reliance on old colonial structures. Singapore's then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew played a crucial role in convincing Fuad to support Malaysia's formation. On June 6, 1976, tragedy struck when Fuad's aircraft crashed, killing everyone on board, including Fuad, his eldest son Johari, and nine others.

Asgari, then five years old, was told by his housemaster the following morning that his father and brother had died. For several years, a "black cloud" hung over Asgari and his family, but they have since found hope in the multiracial nature of Sabah, reflecting his father's belief in unity and inclusivity. As Malaysia Day approaches, Asgari reflects on his father's legacy with pride tempered by sadness over what might have been if Singapore had not left the federation and Fuad had lived longer.