“I remember Kek Hwa as a very caring and helpful mentor at the National Library’s then Reference Services Division.
As Head of the Division, her desk used to face the entrance to the Division. She always had 5 to 8 reference titles sitting on her desk as she used them to help staff with the more challenging reference enquiries.
She would not give up on an enquiry, until she had found adequate information to satisfy the enquirer, and she made it a point to check if the enquirer was happy with what was found for the question posed. This impressed me deeply as a good example of great customer service.”
Ngian Lek Choh, Director, NLB
Lim Kek Hwa at Reference Services NLB
“Lim Kek Hwa was both a friend and a colleague whom I had the pleasure to work with for more than 25 years. As a friend she was kind, helpful and nurturing. As a librarian she was the best – the best reference librarian in the National Library. She was meticulous, diligent and resourceful. She built up the National Library’s reference services and the reference skills of many of its librarians. I am sad that we have lost a good friend and a dedicated reference librarian.”
R. Ramachandran, former Deputy Chief Executive, NLB
“I worked with Miss Lim Kek Hwa in the National Library at Stamford Road from 1983 until 1987 in the Reference Services Division. Kek Hwa taught me much about the National Library’s Southeast Asia collection, particularly about Singapore and Malaysia. The knowledge and experience I gained working with her allowed me to take up the post of Librarian for Southeast Asia here at SOAS. She was a friend and mentor and her enthusiasm and sense of humour were a great help to me – I was both new to Singapore and new to librarianship when I joined the National Library. I offer my condolences to her family and former colleagues. Kek Hwa was both a good friend and great teacher to me and many others.”
Nicholas Martland, SOAS, London
“Miss Lim Kek Hwa was my mentor when I was with the Reference Services Division (RSD) from 1989 until she retired in 1997 on medical grounds. She was then the Head of the Southeast Asia Collection of the National Library. After she retired, a few of the ex-RSD staff, including myself, still kept in touch with her by visiting her in JB, where she lived after she retired. She always cherished these reunions. Our last reunion with her was when we visited her at Singapore General Hospital in September this year and then proceeded to her house in JB. Miss Lim was a dedicated and resourceful librarian. She was very knowledgeable in Singapore information, especially Singapore history. She believed in sharing of information, a quality that I admire and try to emulate. I learnt my research skills and the passion for acquiring knowledge from her, as she was a great teacher. After she retired, there was a “void” in this area of expertise. Now that she is gone, there is a void in my heart…I will never forget her…”
Azizah Sidek, NLB
Lim Kek Hwa at right with colleagues from NLB
“More than any other librarian, Kek Hwa was proud of her profession and it has every right to be proud of her. Librarianship was her vocation and her avocation.
I have the privilege of working with Kek Hwa for over 20 memorable years. Even though I was working in the government department libraries over the greater part of that period, Kek Hwa was the one person whom I would turn for help in the course of my work. Being a consummate reference librarian, she was able to provide the answer to any research enquiries that I could not resolve. On every occasion that I had to use the Reference Services Division at Stamford Road, I would see her browsing through a trolley of new arrivals or the library collection to index information on people, places and events related to Singapore. She also started a collection of Singapore related postcards and would show me her latest acquisition after each overseas holiday. What a great advocate of the Library as the future of culture and history of our country!!
Over the course of her career, Kek Hwa inspired and mentored many librarians and library officers to be equally committed to library information services and to maintain high professional standards. Even after her retirement in 1997, she maintained a keen interest in the National Library and I continued to seek her advice.
I have lost a great friend and mentor.
Lily Chow, NLB
“I first knew Kek Hwa some 30 years ago. She was then in the Attorney General’s Chambers Library while I was in public library service. We spoke over the phone regarding an inter-library loan request from the library.
It was only in 1980 that we got to know one another better. I was transferred to the then Reference Services Division of the National Library and working with her in the same division, but different sections – she was in the Southeast Asia (SEA) Section and I was in the Science and Technical Section. When she later became Head of the Division, I was in charge of the Science and Technology Section.
I worked more closely with her during the late eighties when she was in charge of the SEA Section, while I was in charge of the Science and Technology Section. As heads of two different sections within the same division, there was some sort of ‘rivalry’ between the two of us for scarce resources. However, we still somehow managed to work closely for the common good of the Division. I remember the last big project that we worked together. After this project, I was away and when I returned, she was already on medical leave and then later retired on medical grounds. However, even though she had retired, she still kept in touch with us – a few of the colleagues that had worked closely with her.
At the Library, Kek Hwa was dedicated to her work in the Reference Services Division as a whole and the SEA Section in particular. She was a responsible and meticulous person, fully committed to her work. Although holding a higher position than mine, she would sometimes seek my opinion on matters relating to statistics and numbers. She was an excellent example of a passionate librarian. She was always eager to share any new information she had learnt through working on a research enquiry. She was also very strict in ensuring that staff answered enquiries to the fullest extent. She would personally go through enquiries that had not been answered fully and coached staff on this. I can say for sure that I have learnt a lot from here especially regarding information and resources relating to SEA and Singapore. She had been an inspiration to many staff.
After her retirement, she still had a profound influence on me. In spite of her illness, she would still find time to have “catching up” lunch and dinners with some of us. As her illness took a greater toil, she would continue to catch up through email or phone. Although staying in Johor Bahru, she continued to keep abreast of what’s happening in Singapore through reading The Straits Times. Occasionally, she would send emails to share her thoughts about reference services and the development of libraries in Singapore. She would also ask about how the colleagues whom she used to work with were getting on. All these showed that she had a positive, faith-filled outlook on life and toward other people. I recall there were occasions where she had a great sense of humour. For instance, after reading one of the issues of BiblioAsia, she told us that she dreamt about handling an enquiry but fumbled at counter because the information was not complete in the OPAC. Although her passing away filled me with sadness, I was at the same time happy that she had lived according to: 2 Timothy 4:7:
“I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”
Chan Fook Weng, retired NLB staff
How wonderful to read the glowing tributes for Kek Hwa. I knew her from 6th Form days in Melaka High School in 1957 and we studied in Malayan Uni together . Although Kek went on to do Library Studies in the UK she faithfully kept in touch even after I left Malaysia to settle in Perth in the 1980’s.
She was a loyal friend and a wonderful support to me in all these years. We shared our joys and sorrows and despite her illness she had always maintained her hope for a finalvisit to Perth . Her faith in the Lord has been an inspiration to me and all her university mates.
In spite of her illness, she did make a visit to Perth in 2001 and we had a lovely time catching up and reminiscing about our college days and friends.
My only regret is that I did not have the chance to say a final good-bye- when I was in S’pore on
22 Nov 2006 but that was her wish and God’s will.
May her life and her dedication to her work and her Lord be an inspiratiion to all of us .
Eng Lee
Mt Pleasant.
W.Australia
It is truly amazing to read what my aunt’s former colleagues have to say about her. Thank you for taking the time to honour the memory of her.
I had the privilege of being a part of her life before the Lord took her home. She was an inspiration to me and a truly amazing auntie and I will always cherish and hold the memory of her close in my heart.
Marc Khoo
Singapore
Your life has been a blessing to many and an inspiration to me in particular. Thank you for being a good friend
It’s nice knowing you.
It was nice knowing you, Kek Hwa
It is nice to know you. Thank you for being a nice friend.
Lord Jesus touched our lives, in turn we touched others. I am sure she (Mdm Lim) had. Praise the Lord”
May God’s peace be with you and your family.
Deepest Condolences. Long time library friend.
Deepest sympathies from an ex-colleague.
With deepest sympathy.
My memories of Kek Hwas are lovely. Her spirit lives on in all of us who knew her and worked with her. Nicholas Martland in London also send his condolences.
A friend and good boss.
Shall always remember the years you, I, Nicholas Martland and Wong Heng worked in the South East Asia Room.
An excelllent librarian and a very good friend.
Such a nice supervisor, an excellent working partner.
A gracious lady, patiend, cheerful and a kind and generous person.
A friendly, very warm and kind hearted lady.
A truly gracious and warm person.
Linda was by Kek Hwa’s hospital bed, 3 afternoons, talking to her the week before her passing and return to attend her funeral.
Though only met once long ago, but impression was everlasting. (cousin)
You have indeed finnished the race! God be with you always.
The Lord watch over you and keep you near to Him.
Miss Lim Kek Hwa – a life that is an aroma of Jesus Christ to many, caring and loving.
Sitiawan memories last forever! Kek Hwa used to drive us in her packed (7-8 children) mini cooper to Lumut for fishing, with rods sticking out of the tiny windows. First one to catch a fish received monetary reward!
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have everything I need
He lets me rest in green meadows
He leads me, beside peaceful streams
He renews my strength
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honour to his name
Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid
For you are close beside me
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies
You welcome me as a guest
anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love
will pursue me all the days of my life
and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.
Lark Ee will always stay in our memories…..
You made it! – the fight’s over. Praise the Lord!
Pastor of Wesley Methodist Church Johor Bahru.
May our Lord of grace and mercy comfort you and your loved ones during this time. He indeed is a God of comfort.
Will always remember you as the Reference Librarian.
Will always remember you and your family. With deepest condolence & sympathy.
May God bless your loved ones, give them peace and comfort.
My favourite and best Sunday school teacher!
May God’s peace and comfort be with you in your loss but we praise Him that Kek Hwa is free and well.
May God’s peace be with you.
Kek Hwa, may you rest in peace. May God’s love and comfort surround your loves ones.
The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. May the love and tender mercy of God surround you during this time of sorrow. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
JB Wesley Methodist Church
May you take courage and find comfort to know how much God cares for you. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust. May He blanket you in His love throughout these days. God bless you and strengthen you.
…..she was of a gentle spirit and quiet faith. I first knew Kek Hwa in Taiping when her father pastored the Chinese Church there. I am much saddened by Kek Hwa’s death. It is however, tempered by fond memories of our Taiping days (with our colleagues – Satwant, Cheng Hiong of Taiping, Kanes now in S’pore). I continued our friendship when Kek Hwa went to Singapore. We coresponded while she was in the UK. Have visited her at work at the National Library, stayed a night at her apratment and enjoyed times of visiting with her and Kanes. Sally Ti, her former Uni Course mate and I had talked of visiting her in JB-we didn’t make it. Kek Hwa and I have enjoyed our exchange of emails and letters, the past few years. I am much blessed and enriched….I thank God for Kek Hwa’s life in my life…
‘Beyond earth’s sorrows, the joys of heaven; Beyond earth’s shadows, a glorious dawn, Beyond earth’s battles, sweet peace unending, Beyond earth’s sunset, is heaven’s first morn’
With sympathy, He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. May you find comfort in the sure knowledge that your loved one has stepped onto the shore of heaven and has been welcomed by the loving hand of God. Sharing in your deep sorrow and caring about your hurting heart.
In your time of loss, may you draw strength and consolation, in knowing that others share your sorrow. And may it bring you comfort to know that God is near you and He will comfort you. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavillion. With our deepest sympathy.
I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord. No tender voice like Thine, can peace affort, I need Thee, O I need Thee, Every hour I need Thee! O bless me now my Saviour – I come to Thee. Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Whatever happens, God is there, to keep you safe, within His care, Although each day brings challenges and things, that are unknown, You don’t have to face them by yourself or deal with them alone, For others care about you and will keep you close in prayer, And, above all God will guide you for He’s truly always there. God has brought you this far, He will not abandon you now. Keeping you close in thoughts and in prayer.
Tell Lark Ee goodbye and wherever she is at, I will always remember her.
One cannot rule out the mighty power of Divine intervention, and especially Divine care. We are glad to hear that Lark Ee is not experiencing pain and not suffering. Perhaps we are already seeing God’s caring hands. Lark Ee was kind. She always took time out to help us. She drove me around A’pore to get my winter garments before I left for the US. I’ve also remembered this story since the day it happened….shen you folks were living in Sitiawan (Simpang Empat), we visited often. In one particular visit, we spent the night there. During the night, my allergies kicked in and I was hacking and coughing with a full stuffy nose. I just could not sleep and felt all around miserable. Lark Ee felt sorry for me and let me sleep on her bed. If you rec all, her bed had smooth white sheet with a super comfortable matress. I fell asleep within seconds and slept soundly through the night. (Being nine or ten, I didn’t have the courtesy to find out where Lark Ee slept while I hogged her bed.) I remember the next morning Lark Ee kidded that was I just faking the sick part so that I get to sleep on a comfortable bed. This may be just one small act of kindness, but Lark Ee has so many of these that they quickly add up to become an overflow of kindness. May God bless Lark Ee’s sould and may we all cherish her memory forever.
It was an honour to come to know Kek Hwa. Having read the lines others shared about her, I realised that I missed really knowing a great women, sister, aunt and friends of many. Marianne, I have learnt that a caregiver many a times suffers more than the sufferer. I am sure Kek Hwa deeply appreciated all the sacrifices you had made in the course of caring for her.
She was such a kind and considerate person. I will miss her and she will forever stay in my momories. My deepest sympathies.
Eulogy
Good evening every body,
I am Shawn, 8 years old and a loving nephew of Lark Ee. She was with me since I was a baby. Lark Ee loves me very much and she was like a second mother to me. She took care of me when mommy was busy. She patted me to sleep during afternoon naps. She taught me to grow up to love reading, a good boy and to love God. We shared good times together. She taught me to sing her favourite hymns – The Old Rugged Cross, Standing on the Promises of God and Silent Night. WhenI started school, Lark Ee made sure that I brushed my teeth everyday after lunch or else I would smell like fish to my friends. When she had to leave early to hospital, the toothbrush would always be ready waiting for me by the sink. Lark Ee fed me cod liver oil every morning so I would not fall sick. Sometimes I was naughty and rude to Lark Ee. I shouted at her but then made up by saying sorry and giving her a big hug. I say her in hospital and wanted to speak with her in private. I made her laugh with my jokes. I told her I do not want her to go but she told me that people need to die one day. “When I’m gone, I will watch you grow from heaven.” I told her I would never forget her and she said she loved me very much and will miss me. I came out crying because I know I am going to miss her very much. Goodbye Lark Ee, till we meet again in heaven one day.
You have been a tremendaous mountain of strength and inspiration, help and support to all of us over the years – in sweden and now in the UK. You have certainly made this world a better place for all of us! Much loved and sadly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Our deepest condolences to Kek Hwa’s siblings and relatives during this time of grief.
Just to let you know that we truly regret that we cannot be there with you all during this difficult time. It was indeed a memorable occasion for us when we were able to meet with you and Kek Hwa in December 2004. Though the visit was brief, we certainly will treasure all the moments that we spent with Kek Hwa then. She was really happy to see us and so were we! Losing someone we love is never easy to accept. We hope and pray that you will find comfort and true consolation in the beautiful memories you keep of Kek Hwa. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers always.
Hve been reading the chronological events on Kek Hwa till the end. She is gone and in peace, though I know you will all miss her. Take care and the blessings that you and your family, brothers and sisters , for looking after her all these years will never be enough, but enough to know that she is now in God’s hands.
I believe everyone sort of expected this moment when Lark Ee will no longer be suffering, but it is still sad that she is no longer here. I know I have not spent a lot of time with her but I still think of her alot. Please send my regards to everyone when you see them. My thoughts are with you all in this time of grief.
We are so sorry to hear about Kek Hwa. She is at peace now. We had an email from Kim Eng and she assumed that we had heard. We had just got back from a short trip to Barcelonia when we received her email We haven’t been in touch as much as we should have. We normally contact the girls, Satwant, Gerry, etc when we come over to Malaysia. We have already booked a trip for March next year, staying for 3 weeks so there should be time to catch up with friends as well as family. Please accept our condolences, it is so sad to lose a friend and we go back such a long way. Our prayers are with you all. Will keep in touch. Love always.
We don’t like to say good-bye to those whom we love. It is right for us to weep, but there is no need for us to despair. They had pain here, they have no pain there. They struggled here, they have no stuggles there. You and I mught wonder why God took them home, but they don’t. They are, at this very moment, at peace in the presence of God. May the hope of heaven give you peace, and the tender touch of the Father bring you comfort. With Sympathy and prayers.
Deepest condolence during this time of grief.
Words may fall short of expressing comfort to you, but we continue to keep you in our prayers. Our hope is that you’ll trust God to give you strength and peace in the midst of your sorrow…turning to Him to fill your every need.
With sincere sympathy
Each one of us must release the hand of one we love into the hand of One we have not seen. Sharing your sadness, praying for your comfort.
‘God will tenderly comfort you…’ II Corinthians 1:7
There’s no way to fully understand the pain you’re going through, or how deeply you hurt right now. But there’s one certain thing in all this, one thing more powerful than the sadness you feel….God’s love is here–to surround you, to strengthen you, to carry you. His love will pierce the darkest hour you walk through to bring hope, comfort, and rest for your soul. I’m praying for you as your heart heals.
Our tears gently water the seeds of hope…and though our hearts feel heavy with sorrow, God’s infinite peace springs forth. May your heart be tenderly comforted by His compassion, hope and peace. With deepest sympathy.
There are so many tender ministries of the Lord to our lives, but it is in the time of loss that we discover the deepest meaning of His tenderness.
May you sense His tender words being spoken to your heart, ‘I am your God and I will be your comfort.’ You are in our hearts, our thoughts, and our prayers.
The Lord knows you are hurting–He sees your pain and feels your grief. He will be near to you to comfort you, give you peace, and bring you hope. He loves you and sees each tear you cry, because you matter so much to Him. thinking of you and praying for you during this difficult time.
Even though I don’t have the right words or fully know how I can help, please know that I want to. You can count on me to be joined with you in prayer and in any other way I can be there for you. “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Heb 4:16
As prayer is lifted heavenward, God hears each name that’s spoken…And in the throne room of His grace, He heals the heart that’s broken. May God comfort your heart, fill you with peace, and give you hope as you rest in the arms of His tender and faithful care. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
Deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with you during your time of grief.
hose we love are never forgotten. Praying you’ll have the peace of God, the comfort of His spirit, the hope of His promises—and the joy in the gift of your memories now and always. Thinking of you at this time.
In this difficult time, may Jesus strengthen you and fill your heart with the peace that passes all understanding. In sympathy.
“Casting all your care upon Him for He careth for you” 1 Peter 5:7
Thing of you at this time. With deepest sympathy.
With heartfelt sympathy. Sending loving thoughts and a fervent prayer for His peace to surround you.
“The peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:7
With heartfelt sympathy.
Strength, Hope, Comfort, Peace…Praying you receive all God has for you as you go through this time of sorrow. With sympathy.
My thoughts are with you during this time of grief. With sympathies.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Deepest condolences.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
Much loved and sadly missed. With our sympathies.
With heartfelt sympathies from the following colleagues, friends and relatives, who came to pay their last respects to Kek Hwa.
Lin Wei Ho-NLB, Ang Seow Leng=NLB, Low Eik Sin-NLB, Nazeerah Gopal-NLB, Chung Lee Geok-NLB, Fauziah Ibrahim-NLB, Hamidah Abdulah-NLB, an & George Tan, Puah Kok Pui, Chearn Hing Lee, Hector Hum, Amy Koh, Yvettte, Hang Hua Yoong & Tan Lai Wan.
God bless you in your time of loss. ‘To let you know that others care and share in your sorrow’
May God’s Love be strong enough to carry your sorrow and gentle enough to bring you peace. with deepest sympathy, God bless you.
Senior Consultant ENT Surgeon
Department of Otolartyngology (ENT)
Singapore General Hospital
For me Kek Hwa was a remarkable lady who loved unconditionally and gave sacrificially without expecting anything in return.
I‘d also like to echo Rev Ting’s remark: a caregiver many a times suffers more than the sufferer. Yes, a loving sister who took up the full responsibility to care for the ill strickened Kek Hwa is highly commentable. God Bless you, Marianne !
Phebe, Marianne, Kek Har,
My deepest condolence. I know it’s not easy to lose someone you love. May she rest in peace.
pearly
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
I AM YOUNG HEALTHY MAN, A NIGERIAN.
I AM A LIBRARIAN IN ONE OF THE INSTITUTIONS IN NIGERIA. I WANT TO JOIN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER?
Kek Hwa and I have been colleagues in the National Library for several years. More than just colleagues, we were also good friends. although we worked in different departments, there was a special bonding between us, as we were both Methodists, and at one time attended the same church. so there were lots of things in common that we could talk about.
We also shared a love of good music – both classicial and church music. I remember Kek Hwa telling me that one of her favourite pieces was the Brandenburg Concerto by J S Bach. She was enthusiastic about good music which she felt had to be shared, and on one occasion presented me with a CD of hymns by one of her favourite gospel singers. Her generosity also extended to include cakes that she had freshly baked – and I must say, her culinary skills were something that put me to shame.
That apart, Kek Hwa who was an Asst. Director and Head of the Reference Services Division was a committed and dedicated librarian, and one who was proud of her profession. She had
a deep attachment to the Library, and even after she had retired, was always happy to receive
news of happenings and events. Gentle and soft-spoken, she was much loved by her staff, and those who were closest to her, made it a point to visit her regularly, even when she later moved to JB.
We kept in touch through greeting cards and she would always muse over changes that were taking place in the Library, and the good old days when there seemed to be more “professionalism”. There was only one regret – she never got to see the spanking new
Reference Library at Victoria Street. Friends had offered to take her there, but I think she was too embarrassed to be seen in a wheelchair.
Above all, there was one thing that impressed me most about Kek Hwa – it was her unshakeable and abiding faith in God. She had been battling cancer for many years, but because of her trust in God remained strong and courageous till the end. In all her correspondence to me, there was never a hint of despair or resentment – instead she always had words of encouragement and would often include quotes from the Bible.
Kek Hwa was also fortunate to have had siblings that were loving and caring, and who took her along on family trips and vacations, and who helped her live as normal a life as possible.
Kek Hwa – fond memories of you will always remain with us. And to her family, I would like to say thank you for giving us this opportunity to reflect on someone who has been special to us in different ways.
I missed Kek Hwa dearly but was thankful that she is with the Lord now. When she was living she was very generous in helping me in all ways, that I will forever remember. I always say that God indeed blessed her doublefold in all her endeavours. May we all learn to be generous towards God’s kingdom from her. Matthew 6: 19-21. “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth., where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
I remember Kek Hwa during our years in Sitiawan. She had been a big sister ‘Akah’ to us.
Whenever we were in their home, she always
treated my sisters, brothers and I as one of their family. I miss her.
Dear Lark Ee
I miss you very much. How is your life in heaven? I think it must be great. I wish you a
Happy Birthday (8 June ’07) even though you are not here. Today I went to the movies with Ryan to watch ‘Pirates of the Carribean’. Nowadays the movies are violent unlike in your days. Enjoy your time in heaven. We went to cameronHighlands and stayed at the Lakehouse. It overlooked a muddy lake. We enjoyed our stay especially the fire place. We remembered you like Cameron Highlands and wished you were with us. We picked strawberries and ate them for breakfast. Yummy, Love Shawn 8.6.07
Her caring smile…..
Her loving embrace…
She is a picture
Of God’s richest grace.
Her thoughtful words…
Her gentle touch…
She is a sister, aunt, friend
Who’s loved so much.
She’s a simply
Beautiful person
Who’s blessed us so fully
And for giving of
Herself so generously…..
lovingly shawn
I had spent 2/3 of my working life in the Children Services of the National Library before I moved up to Reference Services Division in the early 80s.Miss Lim Kek Hwa had by then returned to National Library after a period of secondment at the Attorney- General’s Chambers Library. That was when we became friends. It was a long and lasting friendship, enhanced as colleagues working in the Southeast Asia Room which housed the library’s valuable and historical research collection. The SEA collection was Miss Lim’s special responsibility and she and a couple of us had our desks in the SEA Room. None of us had had any formal training in research work but all of us enjoyed the hands-on experience, working closely with the collection and considering it a privilege to be its custodians for a period of time. Miss Lim was a good leader, willing to share what she knew and had learnt from experience and, at the same time, appreciative of whatever help and suggestions her team could offer.
Of course it was not work all the time. I shall always treasure with quiet pleasure and nostalgia the special moments Miss Lim, Nicholas Martland from Australia and I spent chuckling, giggling and gossiping conspiratorially about so many things- Singlish, people, Singapore politics etc. In spite of her serious public service demeanor, Miss Lim was not void of a sense of humor. She enjoyed joking and laughing when she was among friends. I also remember she would say she would join me on my Yorkshire Dales walking tour when I retired. It’s more than 10 years since I retired and that Yorkshire Dales trip still remains a pipe dream. If ever I do make it sometime, I shall think of Miss Lim very often and wonder whether, if fate had been kinder, would she have been with me?
It was sad when she had to stop working because of ill health. We heard with sorrow when her condition worsened through the years, but then she would seem to recover and we hoped then she would have a permanent remission. During the times she appeared to be better she would almost be her normal self, talking cheerfully about happy times at the library, She would often say how many things she had left undone, but then do we ever feel we have done all that we had wished to do? We had hoped very much she could be taken to see the new NL building but she was worried it would be too much trouble.
The end when it came, though expected, we found hard to accept- she was someone we had known for so long and so well. She had enjoyed her career and I had no doubt she had always very strong family support to sustain her in good times and in sickness. May her soul rest in peace!
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26 years ago, when I was commissioned to write my first book, a history of the National Library of Singapore, I had a lot of help with reference and archival materials from Miss Lim Kek Hwa, who was an absolutely lovely person -congenial, spirited, erudite. I will always cherish wonderful memories of that period – researching in the Southeast Asia Room under the guidance of Kek Hwa, and making friends with such helpful librarians as Mrs P, Azizah Sidek, Chan Fook Weng, Alice Loh, Lim Siew Kim and Nicholas Martland. You will be much missed, Kek Hwa.
I’m the only one in this world. Can please someone join me in this life? Or maybe death…