SIBU: Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh paid tribute to the late Puan Sri Dr Yong Sau Kan, the wife of the late Tan Sri Dr Wong Soon Kai, former Deputy Chief Minister, honouring her as a remarkable woman.
Dr Yong passed away at the age of 100 on April 25.
Paying his last respects at her residence in Kuching on Monday (April 27), Wong described her as a person whose quiet strength left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
“Behind many public figures stands a pillar of strength whose contributions are rarely seen yet deeply felt. Dr Yong embodied this truth with grace, resilience and unwavering dedication. While her husband served the state with distinction, she stood firmly beside him, never seeking recognition yet playing a role that was absolutely indispensable.
“To be the spouse of a political leader is to embrace a life of sacrifice. It is to accept long hours of absence, moments of uncertainty and the constant demands of public life. Yet, she carried these burdens with dignity and composure, ensuring that her family remained strong, united and grounded.
“She was not merely a supportive wife. She was the foundation upon which much strength was built. Her presence extended beyond the home. Through her warmth, humility and compassion, she connected with the community in ways that reflected the very best of public service. She reminded us that leadership is not only about authority but also about humanity.”
On a personal note, Wong, who is also the Progressive Democratic Party senior vice-president, acknowledged that Dr Wong was not only a respected leader but also his cousin brother and a man who profoundly influenced his own journey.
“I still remember his words to me when I was serving as executive director of Delta Finance. He said: ‘I know your life as executive director of Delta Finance with a high income was good but one would become a larger self and a more life-fulfilling person if one can contribute to our society at large.’ Like what he had done; resigned as one of the best known surgeon in this part of the world and devoted himself fully to public service.
“Those words stayed with me. They guided me. And they ultimately shaped my decision to enter politics.
“Today, as we honour Dr Yong, we must also recognise that behind the conviction and service of Dr Wong stood her quiet encouragement, her sacrifices and her unwavering support. In many ways, her strength made his service possible and her influence, though often unseen, lives on through the impact he has made and through those he inspired, including myself.”
Her legacy, he pointed out, is not written in headlines but in the lives she touched, the family she nurtured and the values she upheld; a legacy of humility, devotion and quiet strength.
“As we bid her farewell, we do so with deep gratitude and respect. Her life reminds us of a simple but profound truth: that the greatest contributions are often made not in the spotlight but in steadfast love, silent sacrifice and enduring support.
“May her soul rest in eternal peace and may her legacy continue to inspire us all.”
