Low Fong Choon
In 1967, I was a first-year student at the University of Malaya when my father died of lung cancer.
My father was the sole breadwinner, and I was the eldest of 13 children. We were poor.
As the eldest, I felt it was my duty to give up my studies and get a job to care for the family. I was going to drop out of university to work and provide for my siblings.
As I struggled with this dilemma, I spoke to my scoutmaster, who happened to be a relative of the late Dr Tan Chee Khoon.
He immediately told Dr Tan about my dire situation.
Dr Tan asked me to see him. Without my asking, he very generously assured me of a loan in the form of a monthly allowance so I could complete my studies.
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I completed my studies with his help. After I found a job in finance, I repaid the loan in instalments.
I went on to have a successful career in the corporate world.
I will never forget Dr Tan’s kindness. He set an example for me, and I now help less fortunate students who need financial help in whatever way I can.
I am now in my eighties.
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