A Legacy of Family Values and Service Lives On in Dr Sim’s Tribute to His Late Mother

suppadmin | November 20, 2025

The life of the late Puan Sri Datin Amar Lim Su Kheng has become a powerful reminder of how one person’s values can shape generations, as reflected in the heartfelt tribute delivered by her son, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Speaking at the wake service held at their family residence on Tuesday November 19, Dr Sim shared how his mother’s influence went far beyond the household. Her principles of humility, responsibility and loyalty to home were the guiding force behind his own decision to leave a comfortable life in Australia and return to serve Sarawak.

He said his parents always encouraged their children and later their grandchildren to return home. That continuous reminder, he added, was rooted in a strong family culture that shaped every major decision in their lives.

“We had a house in Australia and did not need to work so hard, but we still came home because of the values my mother and father taught us,” he said.

Dr Sim shared that the same values have been passed down to his children who also chose to return to Sarawak despite having opportunities abroad. For him, this continuity is a testament to the strength of his mother’s teachings.

Her passing also brought attention to a matter Dr Sim has long championed in his public role, which is the importance of early detection of cancer. He revealed that although his mother underwent regular colonoscopy every three years, her cancer developed quickly and was detected only fifteen months after her last screening.

“This shows that even if you follow the guideline, when something does not feel right, you must go for another colonoscopy because colon cancer is common,” he said.

Lim’s life story reflected resilience and generosity. Born in Kuching during the Japanese Occupation, she grew up in a family of eight siblings with very limited means. Despite that modest background, she became known for her kindness and willingness to help others.

Before marrying former Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Sim Kheng Hong, she worked as a hairdresser before becoming a full time housewife. She supported her husband through his political career while raising their children with firm yet loving discipline.

After her husband’s passing, she dedicated herself to her grandchildren. She accompanied them to school daily and continued to instill the same family values that had guided her throughout her life.

Lim, aged eighty three, was diagnosed with colon cancer in March last year and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. When the illness no longer responded to treatment, she decided to spend her remaining time at home surrounded by family.

Dr Sim said caring for her during her final months brought the entire family closer. They took shifts to watch over her, sharing responsibilities and spending long hours together.

“It was a blessing in disguise because we never spent so much time with her before. Everyone took turns looking after her, even my boys, who learned to bathe their grandmother and help with everything she needed,” he said.

He expressed deep appreciation for the oncology specialists and lodge care staff who supported the family throughout her illness, ensuring comfort and dignity in her final days.