Irene Fernandez may have looked simple and timid, but behind that deceptive appearance she was a woman of steel in her battles for the rights of the poor and marginalised in the country, especially that of the migrant workers.

Irene did not falter despite the odds against her. She did not give up but stood bravely against injustice.

She was even sentenced to jail, not for cheating or criminal offences but for standing up against the injustices to poor migrant workers, especially the women.

As right-thinking Malaysians, regardless of race, creed and political affiliation, we salute her courage; we salute her conviction and admire her determination to stand on the side of the oppressed and despised members of our society.

Irene was seen as a threat by those in power for being good and righteous. Despite her jail sentence and other intimidation, she did not falter but fought till her last breath.

Her death is a great loss to the nation and the people.

Irene may be gone but she will continue to remain as an icon of inspiration for all Malaysians, in particular the righteous and good, regardless of race, creed or political affiliation, for generations to come.

As we bid her the final goodbye let’s adopt her motto: “The struggle for change begins at home.”

In our own small ways, we can help bring about the change Irene worked for, to build a better Malaysia.

May she rest in peace.