KUCHING: The strong values instilled by the late Puan Sri Datin Amar Lim Su Kheng were pivotal in guiding Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian’s decision to return to Sarawak and serve the state.
Dr Sim said his parents had always reminded their children and later their grandchildren to come home, a belief deeply rooted in family values that shaped their lives.
“Even though we had a house in Australia and did not need to work so hard, we still chose to come home because of the values my mother and father instilled in us,” he said during his mother’s wake service at the family residence on Tuesday (Nov 19).
He said those values continued to influence his own children, who also chose to return to Sarawak despite having the option to remain overseas.
Dr Sim added that his mother’s battle with colon cancer served as a reminder of the importance of early detection and regular screening. Although she underwent routine colonoscopy every three years, the cancer developed within just 15 months of her last check.
“It shows that even if you follow the guideline, when something is not right, you still need to go back for a colonoscopy because colon cancer is common,” he stressed.
Reflecting on his mother’s life, Dr Sim said she was born in Kuching during the Japanese Occupation and came from a poor family of eight siblings. Despite her frugal upbringing, she was known for her generosity towards friends, the community and her family.
Before marrying former Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar Sim Kheng Hong, she worked as a hairdresser and later became a full-time housewife, supporting her husband’s political career while raising their children.
After her husband’s passing, she devoted her time to take care of her grandchildren, accompanying them to school and instilling core values, stressing family unity.
Lim, 83, was diagnosed with colon cancer in March last year and underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
When the cancer stopped responding to treatment, she chose to remain at home, surrounded by her family.
Dr Sim said the family cared for her around the clock during her final months, which strengthened their bond more than ever.
“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 do everything needed,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to the oncology team and lodge care staff who supported the family throughout her illness.
