Lim Keng Yaik

Tun Dr. Lim Keng Yaik (; born 8 April 1939) is a former Malaysian politician and former Minister of Energy, Water and Communications in the Malaysian cabinet. He was the national president of Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia from 1980 until stepping down on April 8, 2007 to pave the way for Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon. He is also among the only four Chinese Tunship living holders in Malaysia.

Background

Lim was born on 8 April 1939 in Perak. He graduated from The Queens University of Belfast with a MB.BCh.BAO. in 1964.

Ironically, Lim is a heavy Salem smoker despite his medical background, with his per-day quota exceeding those of ex-smoker and former Malaysian Chinese politician colleague, Dr Ling Liong Sik.

Lim is known for his sharp humour among journalists.

Political career

Dr. Lim began his foray into politics in 1968 by joining the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA). He subsequently contested in the Pekan Baru state seat in Perak in 1969 on an Alliance ticket, but lost.

In 1971, he became the chairman of MCA Perak and was made senator for a six year term. However, in 1973, Dr. Lim was expelled from the MCA after going against the then MCA president Tun Tan Siew Sin and in the same year joined Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia (Gerakan).

He became the Ulu Kinta Gerakan division head the next year and moved up to become Perak Gerakan head in 1974. In 1976, he became the party's deputy president. In July 1978, Lim resigned as senator and contested in the 1978 Perak General...
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