Soon Koh has fond memories of Wong Soon Kai, calls him political giant

KUCHING: Second Finance Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh has expressed regrets and deep sorrow over the passing of Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Wong Soon Kai.

Describing Soon Kai as a mentor who had groomed him, Soon Koh said Soon Kai was a giant in Sarawak’s political scenario.

“He ( Soon Kai) had a soft and gentle disposition and was very approachable. He was reliable and was able to make good judgment when times called.

“He has been known as a gentleman politician. That was the part of him that impressed me most.

“This could be seen by the fact that he retired from politics immediately after he lost in Bukit Assek in the 1996 state election while prior to that, he was the deputy chief minister.

“After his retirement from politics, he neither tried to intervene in party matters nor did he attend any political activities.

“He was a man of his words. A true gentleman,” said Soon Koh in a statement.

Soon Koh, who had served in the education and finance industry, said when he was working at Delta Finance as executive director, he did not think of getting involved in politics.

However, something which Soon Kai said made Soon Koh change his mind.

“Soon Kai was the person who talked me into getting involved in politics. I will not forget this.

“He said I should see the big picture; that I must try to serve more people; that if I have the capability, I must serve the people through politics and fight for the betterment of the Chinese community.”

To be involved in politics would mean a new start.

Under Soon Kai’s guidance, Soon Koh gradually took on the path of politics.

“He was my mentor when I stepped into politics. It was him who encouraged me to participate in politics. I am where I am because of him.

“I was keeping tabs on him since he was not well. I didn’t forget for a moment what he had done for me and I will not forget his guidance.”

Soon Koh, who is now on a working visit to China with Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg, said he would try to return to Kuching to attend Soon Kai’s funeral and to see his mentor off on the last lap of his journey.