SINGAPORE: The Workers’ Party mourns the loss of one of its stalwarts, Mr Lim Ee Ping, affectionately known as Uncle Lim.
He passed away on the morning of 29 May at the age of 86 after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind his wife, children, and grandchildren.
The news of Uncle Lim’s passing was initially shared by Death Kopitiam Singapore, a local social media page dedicated to honouring the departed and providing solace in times of grief.
In a statement issued on Tuesday evening, the Workers’ Party highlighted that its leaders and volunteers had recently met with Uncle Lim in person on 5 May.
WP noted that Some days prior, members were informed of Uncle Lim’s limited time left as his fourth battle with cancer took a grim turn, despite triumphing over it thrice before.
“Uncle Lim was so heartened by this gesture that he resolved to attend the Party’s next Hammer Outreach. ”
“Like all members, he sold some copies of our Party newsletter, the Hammer. It brought him great satisfaction to know that he continued to play his part in helping the Party’s cause, even in his final days.”
Recognizing Uncle Lim’s unparalleled contribution, the Workers’ Party emphasized his role in upholding democracy during challenging times.
“For the Workers’ Party, Lim Ee Ping showed what commitment to the cause of democracy looked like – A lesson very few in Singapore can say they had the privilege of teaching.”
“While he will be sorely missed, he will be remembered by all of us in the Workers’ Party with great fondness. He personified the values of resilience and true commitment in the face of adversity. A fighter, right to the end. ”
WP Chief Pritam Singh pays tribute to Uncle Lim’s commitment to democracy
In a separate Facebook post, WP Chief Pritam Singh fondly reminisced about Uncle Lim and praised Uncle Lim’s unwavering support and encouragement for himself and fellow WP colleagues.
He said despite his age, Uncle Lim remained a familiar presence at Hammer Outreach activities, embodying the party’s values of fairness and justice.
“Before he fell ill, and every now and then, he would come to my MPS sessions just to say hello, and chat with the Eunos volunteers, something he did at other WP MPS sessions too. Unassuming, encouraging and always friendly. ”
Pritam Singh also praised Uncle Lim’s exceptional skills as a rally speaker, noting his ability to connect with Singaporeans, especially those who spoke dialects.
Mr Singh expressed gratitude for Uncle Lim’s dedication to the cause of democracy, acknowledging his role in shaping the WP and leaving behind an impactful legacy.
Earlier, WP MP for Sengkang GRC, Associate Professor Jamus Lim, expressed gratitude to Death Kopitiam Singapore’s Facebook page for their kind tribute.
Assoc Prof Lim highlighted Uncle Lim’s lifelong dedication to advancing a cause he deeply believed in, a commitment for which WP members are profoundly grateful and determined to build upon.
He described Uncle Lim as a giant of his time, leaving an indelible mark on the party and the nation.
Unwavering dedication to The Workers’ Party
Born in 1934, Uncle Lim joined The Workers’ Party in 1959 when he was 20, a pivotal year for Singapore as it attained self-government.
He recalled that his decision to join WP stemmed from his admiration for WP founder David Marshall’s honesty.
Reflecting on the post-Marshall years in a 2017 interview, he described WP as essentially being an ’empty city’, facing significant challenges.
Despite encountering obstacles and enduring stigmatization due to his affiliation with the political opposition, Lim remained resolute in his convictions, tirelessly advocating for a more inclusive and dynamic political landscape.
One of Lim’s notable contributions was his electrifying rally speeches delivered in Teochew, which resonated deeply with the crowds, igniting their passion and fervour.
His commitment to the party never wavered, even during the darkest days when being associated with the opposition carried significant risks.
Yet, Lim persevered, driven by his belief in the importance of constructive checks and balances in Singapore’s politics.
The retired baker’s dedication extended beyond mere rhetoric; he actively participated in grassroots organizing, rallying members, and spreading the party’s message, often traversing the city on a humble bicycle.
His unwavering dedication to serving the nation through his political activism exemplifies the spirit of resilience and commitment that defines Singapore’s journey as a nation-state.
Through his remarkable journey, he witnessed the evolution of Singapore from its early years of independence to the diverse and resilient nation it is today.
“Today, I am satisfied. With the respect I earned from fellow party members, I continue to serve Singapore. In no time, the baton will be passed to the younger generation, ” said Uncle Lim in 2017.