GEORGE TOWN: The Star’s former photo editor Leow Chuan Yuan but more popularly known as CY Leow has passed away. He was 77.
He passed away peacefully at the Wellington Regional Hospital in New Zealand on Nov 14.
His career spanned decades and continents, leaving an indelible mark on the world of photojournalism. Beginning his journey in the late 1960s, Leow studied photography at RMIT in Melbourne, Australia, before embarking on a distinguished career.
Leow served as senior photographer for the New Straits Times in Malaysia and later took on leadership roles as Picture Editor for The Star (Malaysia), The Dominion (New Zealand), and Singapore Press Holdings, where he was instrumental in helping to implement their first digital picture desk.
Leow’s expertise also extended to work with organisations such as PricewaterhouseCoopers (Malaysia) and Malaysia Internet Resources.
After settling in Wellington, New Zealand, he worked as a Scanning Technician at NZ Micrographics until his retirement in 2016.
Leow was a devoted husband to Babe Lean, father to May-N and Ming-N, and a beloved “Ah Kong” (grandfather) to a grandson.
His family described him as a unique individual whose passion for photography defined his life and inspired those around him.
His former colleague Ng Ah Bak said he was a master of the decisive moment, his photographs froze time and emotions, creating timeless memories for generations to admire.
“He also had an extraordinary eye for beauty, and his legacy now lives on in the stunning images he left behind.
“He was also pioneer in his field, he not only embraced new technology but redefined what photography could achieve,” Ng said when contacted today.
A service celebrating Leow’s life will be held on Nov 22 at The Wilson Funeral Home in Wellington, followed by a private cremation.
Leow’s legacy will be remembered not only through his striking images but also through the lives he touched as a photographer, mentor, and family man.
