KOTA KINABALU: Activist SM Muthu, a leading figure in Sabah's environmental scene, passed away on Sunday after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 75.Muthu, who took an uncompromising stand on issues affecting the state, incurring the anger of certain quarters, soldiered on in the face of opposition to his convictions.
His unyielding stand on environmental issues including coal plants for power generation, developments at Tanjung Beach and Likas Bay here, as well as indigenous and social rights, gained him the nickname"Green Man". Muthu was with the Sepa team, led by Wong, that successfully opposed the setting up of the coal power plant in the 2010s.
"He spoke his mind and was never one to beat around the bush. You did not need wisdom to listen to him because he usually made his case clear and easy to understand."I am glad our paths crossed and also saddened to hear of his passing. I will remember him as a voice for Sabahans and the conscience of our policymakers," Yee added.