Solemn send-off: The hearse carrying the late Ta preparing for departure as family, friends and business partners gather to bid their final farewell. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The late Tan Sri Ta Kin Yan was a beacon of light in the lives of many, known for his dedication to philanthropy.In delivering the eulogy at Ta’s funeral, former transport minister Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy shared a poignant moment from his last phone conversation with Ta, reflecting on a photo taken on May 24 where both of them were smiling brightly.
“The last time I saw him was on May 24. We took what would become our last photo together. His smile was so radiant and genuine; I will cherish that moment forever,” Chan said, his voice tinged with emotion.
“In that photo, his smile was truly infectious. I told him how much joy it brought me to see him so happy.
“Ta was that kind of person. Every positive attribute you could think of was embodied in him.
“From his kindness to his unwavering support, he was a beacon of light in the lives of many.
“I hope he finds eternal peace and joy in the Western Pure Land, living free from pain, always with that radiant smile,” Chan said, holding back tears.
“Farewell, my dear friend. Your spirit and smile will forever remain in our hearts.”
Over a thousand family members, political figures, community leaders, charitable organisation representatives and close friends came to pay their final respects to the late founder of the Waz Lian Group.
Ta passed away suddenly on the afternoon of June 15 at 72.
The final viewing was held at 7am yesterday, followed by the sealing of the casket and prayer services.
Bernama chairman and Star Media Group adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai led a group of media representatives from various organisations to pay their final respects to Ta.
In attendance were also Ta’s friends from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, along with overseas business partners who flew in to bid their final farewells.
Following the funeral rites, eight pall-bearers, comprising representatives from the political and business communities, accompanied Ta’s casket.
Former Hua Zong president Tan Sri Pheng Yin Huah highlighted Ta’s commitment to education and charitable causes.
“In addition to his passion for education, he also encouraged those around him to donate and contribute to educational causes.
“Notably, in 2013, during the construction of SM Chong Hwa Kuantan, Ta spared no effort in helping. He was a man of his word,” said Pheng, who had known Ta for 15 years and dined with him regularly.
“However, in recent years, Ta’s health had declined, which reduced his outings.”
Accompanying the casket on Ta’s final journey were his widow Puan Sri Lim Chai Yin as well as their four sons, three daughters and 13 grandchildren.
According to company officials, Ta, who just celebrated his birthday last month, passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Ta also founded Majestic Gen Sdn Bhd and held positions in various local and international associations, societies and organisations, including the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia, the Community Chest and the Socio-Economic Research Centre.
Waz Lian commenced operations in 1987 in club management before expanding into hotel and resort management and later venturing into property development.
