Pulau Ubin headman, 101, dies

Straits Times Interactive
Oct 7, 2006


Photo by Dr Chua Ee Kiam

PULAU Ubin has lost its headman and oldest resident.

Mr Lim Chye Joo, 101, died on Thursday at his home on the island, where he had lived for more than 70 years.

The centenarian, who had nine children, had been the Pulau Ubin headman for more than 30 years, frequently intervening to resolve conflicts between families and neighbours.

He was often involved in fund-raising activities and even helped set up a school on the island.

Mr Lim was also known to wake up at 5am daily to walk around the island, until a bladder problem confined him to a wheelchair 10 years ago.

When he was 80, he survived a bout of prostate cancer and came through relatively unscathed, having only to take the occasional painkiller.

However, the disease struck him again three months ago.

After a brief hospital stay, his condition worsened. A week ago, he was only able to eat oatmeal and drink milk.

On Thursday afternoon, Mr Lim died after an hour-long coughing fit.

His wake will be held at the void deck of Block 230, Pasir Ris Street 21 until next Wednesday.

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