MCA leaders, friends and families bid farewell to Lee San Choon

KUALA LUMPUR: The late Tan Sri Lee San Choon was given a heartfelt send-off as a large group of people came to bid their final farewell.

Scores of friends, relatives and representatives from MCA and the Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology, the former TAR College, were present to see Lee off on his final journey.

Led by MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, some 30 central committee members, youth leaders and veterans were present to pay their last respects during a simple but solemn ceremony.

Among those from MCA who were present were deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, vice presidents Datuk Yew Teong Look and Datuk Lim Ban Hong, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, national Youth chief Datuk Nicole Wong and party veterans Tan Sri Tan Koon Swan, Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy, Datuk Fu Ah Kiow and others.

In his eulogy, Lee's son Kwan Por, recalled his father as a loving father who dedicated his utmost love to his family.

"Papa never brought his work home, because he did not want to burden his family.

"He may have felt troubled due to work at times, but when he was at home, he hardly shared it with us. He dedicated all his time and attention to us," he said.

Lee's daughter, Ann Gee, said she would always remember her dad's cushy hands that used to calm her down and made her feel secure whenever she was nervous.

Several other long-time friends also shared their eulogy, remembering their happier times and significant memories shared with Lee.

Many also shared words of comfort and hugs with Lee's wife, Puan Sri Dianne Mok Thye Yuen after paying their final respects to Lee's remains.

Lee was later brought to the Xiao En Memorial Park in Nilai, Negri Sembilan for cremation.

A grassroots leader, Lee, who was the fourth MCA president, had an illustrious political career, having held various positions in the party and the government such as special functions minister, works minister, and transport minister.

Born in Pekan, Pahang, he rose up in the party’s youth wing to become its youngest MP at 24 in 1959.

His victory in capturing Seremban in the 1982 general election after accepting the Opposition’s challenge remains a significant feat in the party’s history.

Lee announced his resignation at the height of his political career in March 1983, relinquishing his presidency.

Lee was the MCA president from 1974 to 1983.

Wisma MCA, which houses the party headquarters now, was one of the major projects during Lee’s presidency.

He also launched fundraisers for the Tunku Abdul Rahman College and set up both Multi-Purpose Holdings Bhd and the Malaysian Chinese Cultural Society.

He passed away last Friday at the age of 88, leaving behind his wife, a son and a daughter.