Yesterday (Monday, 5th June) marked the formal 64th birthday celebration of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah. But, Lim Kit Siang (林吉祥), former politician and DAP member, was having another celebration simultaneously. After all, he was just bestowed the title of “Tan Sri”!
The veteran politician was conferred the prestigious title on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s birthday, much to the delight of his family, friends and supporters. The “Tan Sri” title, known as the second-highest federal title after “Tun”, while well-deserved, has remarkably not changed the still-humble Kit Siang.
Rumours of the bestowment were first leaked after a photo of Lim Kit Siang and a palace official went viral the night before the celebration. A DAP lawmaker later confirmed Lim’s involvement in the ceremony which excited many as they felt it well-deserved after his long and faithful service to Malaysian citizens. Lim Kit Siang announced his retirement from politics in March 2022 after serving for 56 years.
Notably enough, the former DAP Parliamentary leader is the first from his party to receive the “Tan Sri” title. Additionally, many praised his adherence to DAP’s unofficial but longstanding tradition of not accepting honorary titles while serving. Amidst the praises, Jelutong MP RSN Rayer also reportedly thanked the Agong and prime minister for “recognising (Lim Kit Siang)’s services to the country’s political and democratic development.”
Both Lim Kit Siang’s children, Lim Guan Eng and Lim Hui Ying, had been in attendance during the bestowment. Lim Guan Eng later shared that it “(is) not easy to see (his) Dad smile like this“. “Proud of you, Dad!” he added. Hui Ying too had praises to sing about her dad, saying: “You are the biggest influence in my own life. I’m still learning from your leadership, unyielding spirit, and wisdom which have been beneficial to many over the years. I’m truly proud of you, dad.”
Wishes and congratulatory messages have been pouring in for the former politician. Of course, Lim Kit Siang later took the opportunity to thank everyone via his socials. “Thanks everyone for the congratulatory wishes. I still prefer everyone to just call me Kit,” he added. While his supporters have acknowledged his wishes, many have also given the new Tan Sri his due respect.
We too would like to offer our heartiest and sincere congratulations to the new Tan Sri Lim Kit Siang. We wish him well as he graciously receives the honour and acknowledge all he has done for Malaysia.
