KUCHING, July 17: Senator Robert Lau Hui Yew’s father Lau Swee Nguong passed away at Borneo Medical Centre (BMC) yesterday morning.
In a Facebook post yesterday, Robert Lau said his 90-year-old father’s health has deteriorated since Sept 2021 and the latter was recently hospitalised.
He shared that his father had led a long and purposeful life of 90 years although the latter did not have an easy childhood nor an easy life.
“He was a bright kid but education was cut short by the Japanese Occupation.
“He set out to work at a young age and always had a passion with machines and engines. His motto in work was hard work and in life, integrity,” he said.
The late Lau wore many hats namely, KTS Group chairman and See Hua Group director.
He was also the managing director of Hwa Seng Group, vice-chairman of SMK Sacred Heart’s board of management as well as the director of SM Wong Nai Siong.
Robert further said that his late father had taught him so much through his work ethics and leading by example.
“I had sat through countless company board meetings with you (late Lau) since my return to Sibu in early 1990s.
“I observed and asked how you could fully dissect the whole set of accounts when you did not even complete primary school education,” he added.
He also said while his father did not agree with young Robert being involved in politics but his father did not stop him, knowing it was his passion.
“I was very touched when a few years ago you agreed to change your voting constituency to the area where I would later stand as candidate. You had come to not only accept but support me,” he stated.
Robert disclosed that his late father was usually busy with work and traveling but he has never failed in being a father to his children and a faithful and loving husband to Robert’s mother for 64 years.
He also mentioned that during the late Lau’s recent hospitalisation, they finally have time to talk to each other one-on-one for hours.
“We had such wonderful discussion on so many topics. Those moments made up for all the void in the early years.
“I am thankful to have a father like you. I love you and will miss you,” he said. — DayakDaily
