Lew to celebrate 80th birthday

KUALA LUMPUR: August is always meaningful for Datuk Lew Sip Hon, especially so this year. 

Each year, as the country celebrates National Day, he looks back on his contribution to nation-building. 

But this year, he turns 80 and his family is planning a grand celebration on Saturday for the patriarch who has never failed to instil in his children the importance of loving and serving the country. 

After more than 30 years as a civil servant, politician and diplomat, Lew said he would gladly do it all over again despite the hard work and long hours away from his family. 

HAPPY COUPLE: Lew and Goh posing for the camera in their house in Kuala Lumpur recently.

“I love Malaysia. I feel fulfilled as I have done my best to serve the people and contribute to the country,” he said recently. 

Lew, who grew up in Sungai Petani, Kedah, had not started off life wanting to be in politics or government service.  

He had yearned to study medicine at Hong Kong University but the World War II came. 

After the Japanese Occupation, he went to Singapore instead and graduated from Raffles College.  

Lew’s first job was with the Immigration Department in 1955 as an assistant controller. 

He then served in various other government positions and was made Deputy Trade and Industry Minister in 1978. 

After that, Lew was appointed ambassador to the United States from 1982 to 1984.  

He was also MCA vice-president from 1977 to 1986. 

After his retirement, he joined the business world. 

His business acumen earned him the moniker “Mr Turnaround.”  

He helped several debt-ridden companies return to the black. 

“I never thought of going into business to make a name for myself. I just wanted to help and I am glad I was able to,” he said. 

Lew urged the younger generation to grasp the importance of multiracial harmony, which is the country’s strength. 

“The older generation which has given so much is passing on. The younger generation must be more attuned to the concept of unity if we want to continue living in a peaceful and plentiful country. 

“It is both an opportunity and a challenge,” he added. 

Lew is married to Datin Goh Min Check and they have five children. 

Accountant June Lew, 41, one of their four daughters, said she looked up to her father because of his simplicity and godliness. 

“He holds on to his principles very strongly. He is a good man. We are also proud of his legacy of service to the country,” she said.