DESPITE his hectic schedule, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow took time off to pay his last respects to former three-term Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Lee Hack Teik at the latter’s residence in Lorong Zoo Tiga, Ayer Itam, this afternoon.
Spending about 30 minutes at the wake, Chow was accompanied by Pengkalan Kota incumbent Wong Yuee Harng, former Pengkalan Kota assemblymen Daniel Gooi and Lau Keng Ee, former Pengkalan Kota candidate Lai Hon Meng, and state Social Development, Welfare and Non-Religious Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim.
Chow and the delegation were warmly received by Lee’s family, who appreciated their condolences and support during the sombre occasion.
In a brief press conference, Chow praised Lee’s dedication and significant contributions to the Pengkalan Kota constituency, which he served from 1995 to 2004.
“I am shocked and saddened by Lee’s passing, especially as he served for three consecutive terms. Although we were from different political parties, he was dedicated and willing to share his input for the state’s growth,” Chow said.
He also acknowledged Lee’s rapport with the media for his contributions to the community.
“Lee’s passing is a great loss, as he was deeply committed to his grassroots work,” Chow added.
Lai, who contested against Lee in the 1999 and 2004 elections, paid tribute to his former opponent.
“He was a well-respected political figure in Tanjong, always willing to assist and offer constructive ideas when needed,” Lai said.
Lau, another of Lee’s challengers, who later won the Pengkalan Kota seat in 2008, described Lee as a “gentleman” in politics.
Gooi also commended Lee, calling him a “down-to-earth and experienced leader.”
“Many in the Pengkalan Kota community still hold Lee in high regard because of the excellent service he provided,” said Gooi, who represented the constituency from 2018 to 2023.
Wong, the current Pengkalan Kota assemblyman, noted that although he was a primary school student during Lee’s tenure, he had heard many accounts of Lee’s dedicated service.
“The community expressed great sadness when I shared the news of his passing,” Wong said.
Lim remembered Lee as a popular grassroots leader known for riding his Honda motorbike everywhere.
“His humble personality was key to his election success for three terms,” Lim said.
The senior MCA figure passed away at his home on Monday at the age of 72.
Lee’s funeral will take place at 2pm on Friday, with the cortege leaving for cremation at Batu Gantong Crematorium.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian