Happy 74th Birthday RPK

It never gets easier. No matter what people say, time doesn’t heal the wound. Instead, it unravels, showing you new and sometimes even more painful ways to miss someone. The ache of missing him lingers, and in many ways, it grows deeper.

Dad was loved by so many, and he left behind a legacy that we, as a family, are incredibly proud of. Now it’s up to us to honor that legacy, to continue what he started, and to make him proud. That’s what he deserves.

He was a man of many passions, and anyone who knew him knew how much he loved his food—especially a good steak. But beneath that fierce exterior, he had a heart that was softer than most people realized. One simple word of “sorry” would melt him like butter. Despite his boldness, he had a tenderness that made him so special to those who knew him closely.

Dad introduced me to politics at the young age of 12, even before I fully understood what it was all about. I remember following him on campaign trails, but one of the most vivid memories was when he was arrested and sent to Kamunting. ABC Australia interviewed me, asking, “Was this worth it, the fight and struggle my dad is going through?” I said no, I just wanted my father back. I didn’t understand why i had to share my father with the nation or why i have to loose a father for Malaysia. Even though I didn’t understand everything at the time, I could feel the gravity of those moments. As I grew older, I began to understand what Dad saw in politics—the power it has to shape lives, to change the future.

Dad, you’ve done more than just make your mark—you’ve made all of us proud. You’ve given the Petra name a legacy that I will always carry with me. I couldn’t be prouder to be your daughter, to carry the torch you lit.

Happy birthday dad. I hope you know how much we love you and how much you’re missed every single day. You don’t have to worry about us anymore. We’ll take care of each other. Just as you’d want us to.

RAJA SARA PETRA