Family members receive the remains of Lau Cheng Kiong at the Sibu Airport.
SIBU (April 22): The remains of prominent businessman Lau Cheng Kiong arrived at Sibu Airport this morning.
Family members and relatives were present to receive his remains, alongside members of the business community and other dignitaries who came to pay their last respects.
The casket then headed to his residence at No.7, Jalan Sebuyau, where the wake will be held.
Lau Clan Association vice president Janet Lau said his passing was a great loss not only to his family but the entire Sibu community.
“He was a respected figure who contributed immensely to the local business landscape.
“He was always very helpful and contributed generously to charity, including donations to SMK St Elizabeth. He was friendly, outspoken and sociable, and was actively involved in many associations,” she said when met at the airport.
“To us, he was a very personal friend — not just a prominent businessman. He had no airs about him, was always smiling, and we will miss him dearly. We will always remember and cherish the moments we shared with him,” she added.
Meanwhile, Robert Lau described Lau’s passing as a significant loss to Sibu, particularly the business community.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the family of the late Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong. He represented a generation of businessmen who were willing to take risks, settle down, and work hard.
“Although he did not obtain a high level of formal education, he still succeeded through intelligence and intuition,” he said.
Robert added Lau never forgot his roots, and remained committed to serving the community through various organisations.
Lau passed away peacefully at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital at 6am on Monday after returning from overseas. He was 79.
The coffin sealing and funeral procession will be held at 8am on April 24 at his residence, after which his remains will be taken to Nirvana Memorial Park, Mile 23, Oya Road for the final rites.
