Tun Musa Launches Book “Ku Li: Memoir 205,” Highlighting Tengku Razaleigh’s Political Journey
KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran UMNO leader Tun Musa Hitam launched a book titled “KU LI: Memoir 205” on Tuesday, which chronicles the political journey of his fellow comrade, Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah.
In his speech at the launch event of “KU LI: Memoir 205,” Musa acknowledged the enduring prowess of the former Finance Minister.
“Ku Li’s life, education, positions he held, and his experiences in politics somewhat mirror my own.
“Ku Li was also regarded as ‘The Wizard’ during times when the country faced economic and development challenges. His name would emerge.
“Compared to Ku Li, Musa loses,” he said, drawing cheers from the audience at the Impiana Hotel KLCC on Tuesday.
Musa also admitted to having had a period of estrangement with his longtime colleague in the past.
“When I was told I was to launch a book for Ku Li, many were skeptical. That’s because so many are unaware of our history.
“Seeing former rivals on the same stage today to speak shows a common interest in launching this book,” he said.
The book, written by Datin Zinitulniza Abdul Kadir, contains several interesting insights, including nostalgic recollections involving Musa, Ku Li, and former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad during the leadership era of the second Prime Minister, the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein.
Spanning 15 chapters, “Ku Li: Memoir 205” also delves into Tengku Razaleigh’s close relationship with Abdul Razak.
The book shares many lesser-known stories, including Abdul Razak and his deputy, Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman’s mission to send Ku Li to China in 1971 to negotiate with Chinese Premier Chou Enlai.
Additionally, the book recounts how Ku Li repeatedly declined ministerial positions offered by Tunku Abdul Rahman and Abdul Razak before finally accepting one in 1976 to fulfill Abdul Razak’s last wishes.
Published by Forum Press Sdn Bhd, “Ku Li: Memoir 205” is available in two versions: a softcover priced at RM55 and a hardcover priced at RM90.
