Hundreds pay their last respect to Tun Lim

Despite the scorching hot weather, the air at the late Tun Dr Lim Keng Yaik's residence, where his body had remained since he passed away last Saturday, has a somber chill to it.

Hundreds of people, mostly family, friends and members of Gerakan, the party that Lim had helmed for 27 years, started arriving here as early as 7am to pay their last respects to the elder statesman.

Although not many were seen shedding tears, the melancholy demeanor of the entire service was not missed especially when his son Datuk Lim Si Pin, who is also Gerakan Youth chief, delivered his eulogy.

In the 15 minutes long eulogy Lim recalled fond memories of his late father, and described him as a great man who was dedicated to his work and family.

"My father always pays attention to details. When he was made minister with Special Functions dealing with New Villages and Emergency work in 1972, he brought back tonnes of reading materials from the ministry and would read until midnight to better understand the needs under his ministry.

"When he was the Energy, Water and Communications portfolio in 2004, he did the same. He wanted to know how he could make the ministry and industry world class.

"He was selfless and always put himself last. He was also a loyalist. Many of his staff have worked for him for 20 to 30 years. Not only that, when he became a minister, he was given a car with the number '3311'. The number still remains in our family," he said.

On a lighter note, Lim made those who present smile fondly when he recalled how cheeky his father, who is known for his wit, can get.

"My father always plays practical jokes on people to teach them a lesson. But his intention was good.

"Once, a policeman guarding our house left his machine gun and went out for a while. My dad took the machine gun and hid it.

"The policeman returned and panicked upon seeing his machine gun disappeared.

"When he told my father he lost his gun, my father told him, 'Young man, you are guarding our house. Please remember to keep your gun with you at all times," he said.

The procession carrying Tun Lim Keng Yaik's body moved from his residence to the Cheras Crematorium at 10.55am for a state funeral.