SIBU: Bawang Assan assemblyman, Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, paid tribute to the late Datuk Lau Nai Ho, describing him as a truly remarkable man – an outstanding community leader whose life exemplified dedication, resilience and service.
Lau aged 75, passed away on April 27 after a period of illness.
Paying his last respects at Lau’s residence at Jalan Camar here today (Apr 30), Wong acknowledged that the late Lau was widely respected as the Chairman of the Sibu United Chinese Association (UCA), the Sarawak Chinese Cultural Association, and many other important organisations where he devoted himself tirelessly to the promotion and preservation of Chinese culture and welfare of community.
“His contributions have left an enduring imprint on the social and cultural landscape of Sarawak,” he added.
Trained as an agriculturalist, Wong said Lau’s life journey was nothing short of extraordinary.
From humble beginnings, he rose through sheer determination and vision to become a giant in the shipbuilding industry, leading one of the largest listed shipbuilding companies.
“He was truly a self-made man – a transnational entrepreneur who built success across borders, and beyond business, he played a significant role in fostering international friendship and cultural exchange,” Wong stated.
As a long-serving leader in the Malaysia-China Friendship Association as well as in the Taiwanese Alumni Association and Chinese Alumni circles, Wong pointed out that he strengthened ties and built bridges between communities.
Wong further noted that Lau was a man of many roles and dimensions: an economic contributor who created wealth and opportunities, a social contributor who gave back generously to society; and a cultural advocate who worked tirelessly to promote and advance heritage and values.
“Indeed, Lau was a complete and well-rounded individual – a true pillar of society. Despite his immense success and achievements, Lau remained humble, low-profile, and unassuming,” added Wong, who is also Senior Vice-President of Progressive Democratic Party (PDP).
“He carried himself with quiet strength and dignity, never seeking the limelight. Those who knew him personally will remember his kindness, his sincerity and his readiness to lend a helping hand.
“I have known him since our younger days. For decades, he was not just a respected leader, but a dear friend. His passing is a profound loss not only to Sibu, but to Sarawak and Malaysia as a whole. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
“May his soul rest in eternal heavenly peace.”
