LETTER | One of my friends and medical colleagues passed away yesterday. It happened fairly suddenly and unexpectedly. He recently discovered he had a malignant brain tumour, that rapidly progressed despite surgery and chemotherapy.

But I am not here to talk about his illness or his dying. I want to talk about his living, his life.

Many people get a “Very Important Person” (VIP) status. But few deserve it. Some get their VIP status by virtue of their birth in a family. Others by election to a position in government. Still some others by buying an award.

But you don’t deserve a “Very Important Person” status unless you have earned it. Even many politicians don't deserve the VIP status, having not done much for the nation.

Dr Japaraj Robert Peter is a “Very Important Person” but he would be the first to say he is not. He is very important not because he comes from a rich family or one with status but because he earned the standing.

He is a man who dedicated his life to his family, to many who needed his expertise and to the health services. He is a keen believer in God and served from the motive that God loves him and so he should share his life with others.

He has the wholehearted support of an equally amazing wife, Jhenet, who is beautiful, strong, generous and compassionate. A wonderful woman fully devoted to her husband (the couple's photo is above) and three children. A woman who has stood fully beside him through all the tough times.

Many a family owe the birth of their child to Japaraj. Many a lady who had obstetric or gynaecological problems was rescued by him. He has a great reputation, not just as a senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, but also as an excellent feto-maternal specialist and trainer.

He is sought after, not just from within the country, but also from abroad – he also helped set up services in neighbouring countries. There are few who can match his energy and contributions.

As our medical profession gets diluted by volume and mediocrity he stands out as a person who did excellent work. There are not many of his calibre. I could extol his many medical achievements but what marks him the most is the strength of his character.

Always quick with a smile, kind and compassionate, and ever there for others in need. He is much loved by his department and colleagues from all over the country. We will miss him dearly. I miss you sorely my friend; with your passing I feel a great void, a great disturbance in the force.

At this time we wish much blessings of peace to the family. Our hearts are broken at his untimely demise but we know this:

Japaraj has fought the good fight,
Japaraj has finished the race,
Japaraj has kept the faith.
(adapted from 2 Timothy 4:7 in the Bible)

Japaraj you are worth more than many and are a true Malaysian we can be proud of. You'll live on in our hearts and the eternal arms of God. Till we meet again my friend in that Eternal Home.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.