Proud moment: Tan (left) has received a few accolades for his philanthropy over the years.
MELAKA: In 2008, philanthropist Datuk Tan Hor Sam contemplated retirement at the age of 60, feeling that it was the right time to savour the rewards of his hard work.
Despite his initial reservations, he experienced a change of heart, which fuelled his unwavering commitment to helping those who were less fortunate.
At the age of 76, he continues to actively engage in community work and participate in a wide range of associations – spanning sports, clans, religious, cultural, and educational organisations.
The dedicated father of three is carrying on the important work of his late father, serving the community selflessly. Despite his children’s desire for him to retire, he remains committed to making a difference.
“I can retire anytime, but my heart tells me to continue engaging and helping people,” he said in an interview with The Star.
The retired lawyer has dedicated his time to community work and charitable endeavours since his younger days.
Since 1978, he has generously funded the construction of new buildings for vernacular schools in Kuala Linggi and Kuala Lumpur. In the 1980s, he helped underpriviledged schoolchildren pursue their tertiary education and contributed educational materials to rural schools.
The British-trained barrister-at-law is committed to using his contributions to positively influence the community.
“I will use my life savings to help others since no one can bring their wealth to the grave,” he said.
Tan’s birthday celebrations are an annual event, in which he generously provides funds to vernacular schools and non-profit organisations across the state.
He also donates to schools that need financial aid or educational institutions that need funds to build halls or libraries.
“Education has been very valuable to me since my younger days, because I believe in giving the best to our children in school.
“As long as they are Malaysians, I am willing to help in any way I can,” he said.
In a generous display of goodwill, Tan made a substantial donation of RM123,000 to numerous schools, charities, and NGOs during his youngest daughter’s wedding reception earlier this year.
He also invited schoolchildren to experience the grand matrimonial ceremony in the ballroom of a leading hotel here.
“I hope my children will also continue my legacy to help others,” he said.
Tan also undertook other charity missions, including helping cancer patients and poor families.
In 2016, he also donated RM250,000 to Yayasan Toh Puan Zurina here to help those undergoing haemodialysis treatment, irrespective of race and religion.
“As long as I still have the means and resources, I will continue with these initiatives,” he said.
His year-round charitable deeds also earned him a spot in a commemorative piece in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the China Press outlet in 2021.
Tan’s contributions to society before the advent of online newspaper archives were also incorporated into a commemorative book, all based on the accounts of veteran journalists here.
