Ripples of shock and sadness are spreading among journalists, politicians and rights activists in Sarawak over the death of veteran journalist Chan Seng Chai - also known as Tony Thien.

Chan, 61, died at 1.55am today in Kuching after undergoing heart surgery which lasted 14 hours. He leaves a wife, two children and a grandchild.

dominique ng interview 010606 gesturing Dominique Ng (right) , state assemblyperson for Padungan and PKR adviser, described him as a professional reporter who took care to verify the facts before reporting them.

Lawyer Baru Bian, whom Chan frequently quoted in reports on issues affecting native customary rights to land, said he had lost a dear friend.

“I knew him for many years and he had a heart for marginalised groups like the natives of Sarawak. He was ever ready to cover my NCR land cases and to highlight the problems. I will miss him dearly,” he said.

Sulok Tawie, secretary of the Kuching Journalists Division and former secretary-general of the Sarawak Journalists Association, described Chan as one of the best-known journalists in the state.

“He was humble and willing to help young reporters who felt lost in the journalistic world. He was highly respected for his views especially on politics and business, and was even consulted by politicians.”

Voon Lee San, state assemblyperson for Batu Lintang, also described Chan as a good friend with a strong interest in local politics.

“He maintained high standards in his profession - he was sharp and feared no one,” said Voon, adding that Sarawak has lost an outstanding journalist.

'Outstanding journalist, mentor'

Borneo Post group editor-in-chief M Rajah said he has known Chan since the 1980s.

“I have learnt a lot from him. He was my mentor. He taught me the art of news and feature writing. In my early days when I virtually had no contacts of my own, he introduced me to his contacts. I am truly indebted to him.”

Chan’s close friend Paul Kadang said Sarawak has lost an outstanding personality and writer who championed the cause of the disadvantaged.

“I knew Chan when I was working as a Press Officer with the state information department in the late 1960s. He was with the Sarawak Tribune .

tony thien funeral 220709 04 “Even while waiting to be operated on, Chan sent me a text-message on July 20 at 23.23pm asking if ‘there is any good story today’. Such was the character of a person who was so involved in journalism.”

Chan began his career as a reporter with then Sarawak Tribune and later graduated with a degree in journalism.

He has contributed to a number of local and international papers, magazines and Internet news portals including Malaysiakini. His column ‘Over a Cup of Coffee’ in the Sunday edition of the Borneo Post had a great following.