Goh Tong family’s generosity has touched many lives
KUALA LUMPUR: For many Malaysians, there is no doubt that the late Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong and his family are well-known philanthropists who love to give to the less fortunate and needy.
After Genting Group founder Lim died in 2007, his philanthropic activities were continued by his widow, Puan Sri Lee Kim Hua. Among the charitable organisations which benefited from the Lim family’s generosity is Hope Worldwide Malaysia.
Hope Worldwide Malaysia country director Darick Wong said the support by the Lim family had been invaluable for many non-profit organisations.
“There are so many things that we do today that we can only do, not only because of the support that the Lim family has given us, but because of the inspiration and encouragement that their involvement represents.
“Because of their generosity, it has changed the face of welfare and brought hope to the needy,” said Wong, who recalled that many people wept when they came to pay their last respects to Lim in 2007.
Likewise, he said, Lee would be sadly missed, especially by those whose hearts the Lim’s family had touched.
Chuah Kian Kuah, the caretaker of Desa Bestari Old Folks Home in Bentong, Pahang, said the living condition at the home improved tremendously, thanks to the kindness of the Lim family.
He recalled meeting Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Genting Bhd chairman and its chief executive, to receive a donation on behalf of the old folks home in 2015.
“What impressed me was how gentle and kind he was,” said Chuah.
“He was so humble, there is no doubt that his passion for service to others stems from his parents.”
He said apart from giving cheques to various causes, the Lim family was also hands-on in helping the poor and needy.
“They wanted to know what was going on and wanted to be involved. The Lim family is a true gem for the people of Malaysia,” he said.
At the Little Sisters of the Poor St Francis Xavier Home for the elderly in Cheras, the Lim family has also made a difference to its 70 inmates. A nun at the home, Sister Teresa, said she got to know the family through Kok Thay’s wife, Puan Sri Cecilia Lim.
She described the Lim family as not only rich in material wealth, but also in spirit.
“They have never refused to help whenever we need assistance at the home.
“The family has always extended their goodwill to the home in no small measures, by giving us not only cash but also in kind like bread and vegetables,” she said.
Lee died at 88 last Friday.
The wake, which ends today, is being held at the family’s residence in Taman Duta here.