JEDDAH, 13 April 2003 — Former Makkah Governor Prince Majed ibn Abdul Aziz, who died yesterday at the age of 65, was not only a good administrator but also a kind and gentle person.
Many people, who knew the prince closely, expressed their shock and grief at the news of the demise of this humanitarian prince, who helped in relieving the suffering of thousands of less fortunate people both within and outside the Kingdom.
Prince Majed made immense contributions toward the development of the Makkah region, overseeing for instance the expansion of the Haram Mosque in the holy city initiated by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd.
The late prince played a big role in the economic development of the cities of Makkah, Jeddah and Taif and the surrounding areas by providing solid support to businessmen and investors.
Prince Majed did everything he could to assist the Disabled Children’s Association center in Makkah, which was established at a cost of SR20 million. The center, designed to accommodate 120 children, is equipped with all the modern educational facilities.
The prince, who was chairman of a committee to help secure the release of indebted prisoners in Jeddah, encouraged businessmen to donate generously to its fund.
“These brothers who are now behind bars for no offense other than being crippled by debt are looking to fellow Muslims to help them return to their families and relatives,” the prince once said.
Yasin Alireza, a Jeddah businessman, described him as “a kind and humane person.”
He added that the prince was very much concerned about the poor and the needy. “His house was always open to those who wanted to see him. He will be sorely missed by us all,” he added.
Abdullah ibn Marae Bin Mahfouz, a legal consultant, commended the prince’s contribution toward the development of Makkah, describing him as “a great and popular prince.”
He said Prince Majed was an honest ruler who stood for justice and freedom. “He had a warm and welcoming personality and made everyone feel special whenever he attended social meetings,” he added.
“His personality was defined by its humbleness, and he had no cravings for higher office. Neither did he put barriers between him and Saudi citizens. He was a man who encouraged frank dialogue,” he said.
Bin Mahfouz said Prince Majed had played a big role in promoting political and intellectual dialogue during Makkah Council meetings.
“Abu Mishaal was a lovable prince and a popular personality. He was a sincere son of the royal family and the nation,” he added.
Ahmad Hasan Fetaihi, a businessman who knew the prince for more than 40 years, said he was always overwhelmed by the prince’s kindness and compassion. “He was very much interested in learning more about the living conditions of his citizens and helping them whenever possible,” he said.
He said Prince Majed was silently serving the nation and society. “He protected business houses from crumbling,” he pointed out. “He gave most of his time to the development of Makkah. He is particularly loved because he gave so much of his support to those who developed the city of Jeddah.”
