Iconic dynamics in the shaping of development space: The contribution of Tun Ghafar Baba to Malaysia’s socio-economic development

The late Tun Abdul Ghafar bin Baba was a great statesman in Malaysia with perseverance in politics and substantial contribution to the country s socio-economic development while assuming the Deputy Prime Ministership. His was a role model in nationalism based on the traditions of honesty, integrity, sacrifice and friendship. Based on secondary information sourced from biographies, newspapers and speeches, this study found samples of this icon’s acts of determination, courage and patience. Rising from poverty Ghafar proved that in this country race, religion and ancestry did not determine success in life. His landmark achievements range from setting up group farming system and the Education Foundation , and from opening up the Adult Class (now known as KEMAS) to running a nutritious diet plan and mobile libraries which still run to this day. His greatest contribution was being a staunch partner to Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir which helped propel Malaysia’s rapid development.