EULOGY - Worshipful Brother Datuk Ngui Tet Yin
- Benedict Chin
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 27
22nd March 1934 – 28th January 2025, aged 90
Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
Worshipful Brother Datuk Ngui Tet Yin, affectionately known as 榮哥 Yin gor (Big Brother), was a man of quiet strength, boundless generosity, and unwavering dedication. Born on March 22, 1934, in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, he spent his life devoted to his family, his community, and the values he held close to heart.
In his youth, Yin Gor was a talented basketball player, proudly representing Sandakan in the Hone Cup Games initiated by the Governor of North Borneo, Sir Ralph Hone. His love for the ocean translated into a lifelong passion for fishing, which he delighted in sharing with his family. Evenings often saw him enjoying fine cognacs, relishing both the drink and the company of his loved ones.
Professionally, he worked tirelessly in the timber and development industries, driven by a steadfast desire to provide for his extended family. His generosity was legendary—always willing to lend a hand, give advice, or support a cause. His life embodied the virtue of charity in its truest form.
Yin Gor’s contributions to Sandakan and the broader Sabah community were deeply significant. As the Life Honorary Chairman of the School Board for Yu Yuan Secondary School — established after World War II by his father to help children affected by the war — he carried on a proud family legacy in education. Under his stewardship, the school grew into one of Sandakan’s most respected institutions.
As Chairman of the Hakka Association of Sandakan, he generously donated land for a multi-purpose hall and led the fundraising and construction of this multi-million ringgit facility. His leadership extended further, serving as Past Vice Chairman of the United Hakka Association of Sabah, Past President and Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Sandakan, and Past Chairman of the Sabah Society for the Blind, where he played a pivotal role in establishing a vocational training centre for the visually impaired.
His service also included key roles in SRJK Chi Hwa, Tadika Chi Hwa, the Red Crescent Society, and the Sandakan and Sabah Badminton Associations.
Within the Masonic fraternity, Worshipful Brother Datuk Ngui Tet Yin’s journey began with his initiation into Elopura Lodge No. 7545 E.C. on December 10, 1969. He became Worshipful Master in January 1976 and went on to serve with distinction as Assistant District Grand Master and Deputy District Grand Master. He also held prominent positions in the Royal Arch Chapter, Mark Master Masons, and Scottish Freemasonry, exemplifying his deep commitment to the principles of brotherhood, integrity, and service.
Yet beyond his many titles and accomplishments, Yin Gor will be most fondly remembered for his calm presence, his gentle nature, and his compassionate spirit. A pillar of quiet strength, he always placed others before himself. His love for good food, fine wine, and the simple pleasures of life made time spent with him all the more memorable.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Datin Ngui Lo Siew Ket; his children — Reverend Ngui Au Sze, Robert Yee Fu (wife: Wendy Wong Pui San), and Benjamin Yee Loong (wife: Lo Mui Foh); and his cherished grandchildren, Chloe and Cayden.
As we say farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, grace, and unyielding generosity. His legacy is one of service, humility, and love—values we can all aspire to uphold. May we honor his memory by continuing the good work he so passionately pursued and by living with the same dignity and compassion he so effortlessly embodied.
Rest in peace, Worshipful Brother Datuk Ngui Tet Yin. Your legacy will forever inspire and guide us.
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