The late Dato’ Dr Lim Joo Hai was born on 18 August 1932 in Tokai, Kedah. He was the youngest of ten children and grew up in an extended family home with many close siblings, nieces and nephews.
Like many others, Dato’ Lim had to mature early due to WWII, taking on onerous responsibilities as a child. Having taught himself from his father’s books, he entered Chung Ling High School where he was inspired by the high standards, community, ethics and friendships. In turn, he was recognised as an intelligent, charismatic leader, with contributions on many fronts: as the Deputy Leader of the Chung Ling St John Ambulance; the Debating Society and as a Boy Scout Troop leader - even chosen to represent Malaya at an international Boy Scout Jamboree in 1948. He later served as the president of the Kedah-Perlis Chung Ling Alumni Association for over 25 years and was the fifth president of the Federation of Chung Ling Alumni Associations.
Dato’ Lim was accepted into Sydney University Medicine, one of the first Columbo Plan students to study in Australia. Upon graduating he returned to serve in Alor Setar General Hospital before becoming a well-loved and highly respected General Practitioner in that city.
Dato’ Lim devoted his life to helping others, both as a doctor and through charitable work. As a doctor, he gave generously of his time and care, working late, paying home visits to those in outlying rural areas, sparing no effort to help his patients, rich and poor alike. He was the Deputy President of the Kedah Anti-Tuberculosis Association, which provided free treatment to patients affected by this terrible illness; the Deputy President of the Discharged Prisoners Aid Society Kedah, which provided training and financial assistance to discharged ex-prisoners; and involved in other charitable programs through Rotary and St Johns Ambulance. His tireless efforts were recognised by the State of Kedah which bestowed the title of Dato’ on him in 2008 “for meritorious services to the state”.
As a man, he was a caring husband, father, brother, son, uncle, friend and doctor. To his family and friends, he always gave his whole-hearted love and support, both emotionally and practically. He had many life-long friendships from all walks of life. He looked for the best in others. While open to new challenges, he continued to value his family, friends, cultural heritage and values. An active sportsman, he was the gentlest and kindest of men. He remained humble, valuing others for their friendship and qualities. He inspired by example.
Sadly, Dato’ Lim passed away on 13 February 2024, leaving the world a poorer place. He will always be remembered with great love by his wife Alice, daughters Sylvia, Cheryl and Sophia, son-in-law Ken, brother Joo Sun, his many nieces and nephews, fellow alumni of Chung Ling High School and Sydney University, patients, colleagues and friends.
