By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 13: Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King, founder of the Rimbunan Hijau Group, was a simple, humble Anak Sarawak at heart whose contributions to Sarawak, Malaysia, and beyond were immense.
In his social media post, Deputy Premier and Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) president Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian paid his respects, describing the tycoon as a devoted party member, philanthropist, and visionary businessman whose impact will be remembered for generations.
“Tan Sri was not only one of the few Sarawakians on Malaysia’s Forbes 50 Richest list, but also a loyal SUPP member since 1989.
“He represented SUPP in the Senate from 1985 to 1988 and 1988 to 1991. We are deeply grateful for his years of service, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication to Sarawak,” he said after paying his last respects alongside fellow SUPP comrades on Wednesday (Nov 12).
Born in 1934 and raised in Sibu, Tiong established Rimbunan Hijau in 1975, growing it into one of Malaysia’s largest conglomerates with diversified interests in timber, palm oil, telecommunications, media, and global ventures.
The group includes four publicly listed companies: Subur Tiasa Holdings Bhd, Jaya Tiasa Holdings Bhd, Rimbunan Sawit Berhad, and Media Chinese International Ltd, which encompasses Sin Chew Media Corporation.
Beyond business, Tiong was a generous philanthropist, supporting numerous charities locally and abroad, and played a pivotal role in strengthening Malaysia-China relations, including facilitating China President Xi Jinping’s visit to Sibu in 1992.
He was conferred the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 2009 by the late Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to business, society, and charitable initiatives in Papua New Guinea.
Despite his wealth and global influence, those who knew him remember his humility, dedication to Sarawak, and commitment to public service.
Dr Sim extended his deepest condolences to the Tiong family, noting that Sarawak has lost a true son of the State and a loyal comrade. — DayakDaily
