Former Sarawak deputy chief minister Wong passes away

SIBU: Former deputy chief minister and ex-SUPP president Tan Sri Dr Wong Soon Kai (pic) passed away at 4am Wednesday after a long illness. He was 90.

This was confirmed by Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) president Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian in his Facebook posting, saying they were deeply saddened by the news of Wong's passing.

Wong, who was the party's honourary party president and third SUPP president, leaves behind his wife Datuk Seri Jane Yong, three children Chee Liang, Chee May, Chee Ling and grandchildren.

Wong served as special science advisor to the Sarawak Government since 1997. He was a specialist medical practitioner for over 20 years. He also held several state ministerial positions and served as the deputy chief minister of Sarawak from 1994 to 1996.

He graduated with MBBS from Universiti Malaya, Singapore and was a member of FRCS of England and Edinburgh.

He retired from active politics after losing the Bukit Assek seat to the late Wong Ho Leng of DAP during the 1996 state election.

"On behalf of Sarawak United People's Party, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Puan Sri Dr. Jane Yong, her children and grandchildren," said Dr Sim.

Dr Sim recalled that the late Tan Sri was a party comrade who was always concerned with the welfare of the party and fellow Sarawakians till the end.

"He was a medical colleague, a great gentleman, a mentor, an inspiring leader and a statesman who dedicated his whole life to his fellow countrymen. It is truly a great loss to our homeland Sarawak and our country. May his soul rest in peace," he added.