KUCHING: The city’s oldest tinsmith and one of its most recognisable icons, Ho Swee Nen, passed away on Monday (July 17) at the age of 88.
The news of Swee Nen’s passing was shared by user Charlotte Hunter on the ‘Kuching – Then and Now’ Facebook group, where many members expressed their condolences.
One of Ho’s grand-nephews, Edwin Ho Wei Khing, shared that the funeral would take place at Nirvana Memorial Park Crematorium in Bau on Wednesday (July 19).
Ho was known for his generosity, often giving pocket money to his eight grand-nephews and six grand-nieces when they spent time together.
In 2019, Ho was among 22 Sarawakians who received the prestigious ‘Living Legends’ award.
Renowned Sarawakian mural artist, Leonard Siaw, immortalised Ho in one of his murals along China Street, near Ho Nyen Foh, the family’s tinsmith business established since the 1920s.
Meanwhile, many Facebook users in the group also paid tribute to Ho.
One commented: “Gone another skilled legend of the tin smith legacy in Kuching. Lots of memories whenever pass by this lane with all those beating and clanging of the tin and hammer. RIP (rest in peace) to the Uncle and condolences to the family.”
Another said: “What a well-known figure in Kuching. Despite not knowing his name, many recognised him.”
