Former Chinese community leader Lu passes away
KUCHING: Former Chinese community leader Lu Kim Yong passed away in Kuala Lumpur late Thursday. He was 74.
Lu, who wa s appoint ed Temenggong between 2012 and 2016, left behind wife Thok Geok Kee, two sons, four daughters and 13 grandchildren.
Lu was former president of the Federation of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions Chinese Associations, former secretarygeneral of the management of committee for Kuching Chung Hua Middle Schools No1, 3 and 4, and former vice-president of Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The prominent businessman was chairman of Ghee Yong Holdings ( LKY) Sdn Bhd, GYH E-Vehicle Sdn Bhd, Ghee Yong Enterprise Sdn Bhd, Ghee Yong Hire Purchase & Mortgage Sdn Bhd and Homestay Hotel.
Lu’s demise was described as ‘a big loss’ for the Chinese community here, as he had contributed as a ‘Temenggong’ and president of the federation.
Pemanca Ko Wai Neng said he had lost a close friend as they knew each other since high school.
“We were classmates and even though we were busy with our careers back then, somehow we had opportunities to work together. He was active in community service. When he was president of the federation, I was the secretarygeneral.
“Lu was a selfless leader who put his heart into everything he did. He was generous and kind, and would not hesitate to contribute whenever his assistance was needed. His self less spirit is a quality that the younger generation should emulate,” Ko said when contacted by The Borneo Post yesterday.
Ko was taken aback when Lu decided to step down as president of the federation a couple of years back. He recalled a conversation with Lu on why he wanted to call it a day.
“He said he was tired. I was thinking about him being the best person to continue holding that role because he was committed to what he was doing. He was a close friend of mine. May his soul rest in peace.”
Former president o f the federation Dr Chou Chii Ming, who is Lu’s predecessor, said Lu had completed a big task in acquiring the headquarters of the federation during his two terms in office.
“I have lost an active and determined company social worker,” Chou said, describing Lu’s success in acquiring the federation’s headquarters as ‘a great achievement’.
The federation’s headquarters is located at City Square, Jalan Pending here.
“He had fought hard to overcome his sickness so as to live and serve. Unfortunately, he has left us. We deeply mourn his demise and pray for him to rest in peace,” said Chou.
Those wishing to pay last respects to Lu can do so at Xiao En Centre, No 1, Jalan Kuari, Cheras in Kuala Lumpur today (Jan 20).
It is learnt that Lu’s remains will be cremated at Kuala Lumpur City Hall ( DBKL) crematorium tomorrow (Jan 21), scheduled to commence at 10am.
A memorial service will be held at Lu’s residence on No 197, Lorong 6, Three Hills Park, Jalan Foochow here this Jan 23, from 10am to noon.