GEORGE TOWN: Veteran photographer Chuah Yew Khoon, renowned for capturing historic moments during his nearly 30-year tenure with The Star, passed away peacefully at age 81 on Wednesday (Oct 30).
Chuah, known for his support, knowledge, and dedication, leaves behind a lasting legacy in journalism and among his colleagues.
Former regional editor (north) Choi Tuck Wo remembers Chuah as resourceful, approachable, and generous in supporting younger colleagues, especially with cultural insights.
"Chuah has always been warm, friendly, and helpful. He would assist young reporters by translating from Cantonese to English during interviews with individuals struggling with English or Hokkien.
"That's our Chuah — the 'go-to' person who knew local Chinese customs like the back of his hand. We will all miss him, especially those who worked closely with him over the years," Choi said on Wednesday.
Chuah's former chief, Ng Ah Bak, remarked on Chuah's artistry and lasting influence in the photography community.
"I am deeply saddened by Chuah's passing—a gifted photographer whose lens captured life’s beauty with unmatched artistry.
"His work brought joy and inspiration to many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of photography.
"His creativity, warmth, and passion will be dearly missed by all who knew him. May his memory continue to inspire us all," Ng said, highlighting Chuah's achievement of winning Photographer of the Year in 1987, organised by the Malaysia Press Institute (MPI).
Chuah began his career with The Star in 1975 and retired in 2004, spending all 29 years with the newspaper and rising through the ranks.
At Chuah's wake at United Hokkien Cemeteries in Paya Terubong, family members mourned the loss of a man who captured their precious moments in frames.
"Photography was my father's lifelong passion. Every family memory, every special occasion—he was always there, camera in hand, capturing it all. As a dedicated photographer, his camera was more than a tool; it was an extension of himself.
"Though he photographed countless others, capturing history even in the most dangerous and adventurous moments of his career, he rarely turned the lens on himself. Now, we are left with his images as a lasting part of history," said Chuah's daughter, Chuah Teik Lee, 52.
Also present were his sons, Chuah Teik Sean, 55, and Chuah Teik Aun, 50.
Chuah's funeral will be held on Sunday (Nov 3), with the cortege leaving at 2pm for cremation at Batu Gantong Crematorium.
