Happy birthday Mei Ling. Still a guiding light. You will always be my role model

Remembering Mei today, 6th July on what should have been her 73rd birthday. I remember her for the wonderful and foresighted person that she was and for all that she did for Malaysia and education. All with such warm open heartedness and friendship. We were so lucky to have her in our lives. I still miss her so much.

I have thought many times about Mei over the last year and how I would like to have been able to talk with her about an issue where I would have valued her opinion. No one can replace Mei and I continue to miss her and the golden moments we had together.

When you miss someone as I do Mei it means you really care about the person and you value them.

On 20th January 2022 family, friends and colleagues joined to remember Mei at Cilantro, Kuala Lumpur over dinner.

Mark asked me to say a few words on his behalf. He felt unable to do this as today in particular was emotional and painful for him. He asked me to share these words I spoke with you.

‘Dear Family and Friends, on behalf of Mark, Wui Leng and Zhou, thank you for being with us tonight to remember my very dear sister Mei.

In the last year we have all worked through the acute pain of our loss and have learnt instead to live with the sadness that Mei is no longer with us. She still lives strongly in our memories as this amazingly ‘can do’ person - energetic, imaginative, positive, warm and generous. A loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend and colleague; and when I say sister, I do not just mean me, I would also include all Mark’s siblings, their spouses and mine. Mei remains very special to every one of us.

Speaking to close family and friends over the year, I have been touched by how much Mei’s influences remain. Mark continues to entertain and to see their friends as regularly as Covid permits. When I speak to him, invariably some friends have just been to the house for dinner or Mark has just been out to dinner with one of you. The house continues to be run by Wui Leng and Mark to Mei’s same high standards and her colleagues at IMU, inspired by her mentoring and encouragement, are actively working to achieve her dream of the hospital.

For me, over the past year, the pain and sadness has slowly come to be replaced with a lighter, more positive feeling of appreciation and happiness that I have been so fortunate to have had Mei in my life. Though her life was too short, and she was taken much too soon - especially when she wanted to give and do so much more - it was still a life very full of meaning and very well spent; so, I cannot dwell on the sadness, much as I miss her. Instead, I feel gratitude that the life that she was given was a life richly filled with purpose and joy and with a lasting legacy.

I feel very proud that IMU chose to name their auditorium after Mei; I am so proud of how Mark, Wui Leng and Zhou have coped through this difficult and sad year through the example set by Mei’s resilience and bravery; I am proud that when Joanna was awarded Junior Doctor of the Year in Australia, she attributed this to Mei’s belief in her and her encouragement; and I am so proud that Mei is so well remembered for the intelligent, generous and warm person that she was by all who knew her.

I would finally like to remind you of Mei’s own words and thoughts, which I constantly refer to, and which inspire me as I would hope they have inspired others:
'When you are young, you feel you have everything ahead of you. I felt the same. It’s natural. One never thinks it is going to end and even in a fleeting moment, if you think it may, it seems unreal. But life is fragile. So, whatever good you can do, do not delay it. The chance may not come up again. And if you need a perspective, whatever agitates you or upsets you, when you reflect on the big issue, the impermanence of life, all these things become small and inconsequential. And in the context of your work in healthcare, please remember, it is a privilege to serve. Service, and to be useful and relevant, can be a legacy.’

Could you please raise your glasses to toast this most wonderful sister of mine - Mei.

I would also like to ask you to raise your glasses for a second toast – to every one of us who contributed to Mei’s wonderful life, and who helped her realise her dreams and ambitions through our love and support.’

IMU, felt like I Miss U , this past year . But each time we passed your room Mei , sighs slowly turned to smiles . We remember the tears, the laughs and the planning we had with you there , and yes the snacks that helped us think too . Most of all we will remember how you made us feel , so valued and special . Nothing gives me more pleasure when introduced to a new staff or partner school colleague , to tell them the inspiring story of our founder , Mei Ling Young. Forever in our hearts , we will try our best to do the right thing .

Remembering our dear Mei Ling, deeply missed, we are forever inspired by her vision and courage, and most of all by the person she was. Our thoughts, and prayers for Mark, Wui Leng, Zhou and all her family on this anniversary, celebrating her life and legacy.
Chim and Anna Maria Lang,
Dundee

Dearest Aunty Mei,

Its been exactly a year since you left us and we have all missed you dearly. You were my closest aunt and my brothers and I were so lucky to have you and Uncle Yong with us throughout our growing years. You have both been incredibly supportive, especially throughout my IMU years. Thank you for the hugs, late nights and hot chocolates to keep me going.

Thank you for letting me return the love and allowing me to be with you during your treatments, albeit for a short bursts. I would not have made it to where I am as a Dr and a mum, if it werent for both your support. For this I will always be grateful.

I often think about you, and wish you hadnt been taken away from us so soon. I sit in comfort knowing all the wonderful things you have done and all the hearts you have touched. You will always be remembered. I have no doubt you will be busy spreading your love and knowledge wherever you have moved on to.

I had a wonderful dream last night, that you came back just to let us know you were well. You looked so happy, vibrant and beautiful in a yellow silk top, with your short silver hair. You had a twinkle in your eye, and you just smiled. 

Thank you Aunty Mei for all the love you have given to us, and for being such an important part of our lives. I miss you..

Auntie Mei,

I miss you...
:(

Miss you very much.

Today is Mei Ling’s 1st death anniversary. While she is no longer with us, we still remember her fondly for her wit, warm hospitality, and strong sense of humanity.

Mei Ling is now looking down from Heaven watching over Mark, Wui Leng and Zhou. We all look forward to meeting her one day on the beautiful shore.

Cheong Seng and Sharon Lee
Jan 20, 2022

Remembering Mei on her first death anniversary is a very emotional and painful occasion for me. The memories of the times and the things we have done with Mei and Mark and Wui Leng and all her dear family members and friends are simply unforgettable. The quality time we spent together is to be cherished forever.

Mei is very dear to me, Kour and all our kids, Ken, Suyin and Kuo. She is the very special person to all of us. The special bond cannot be described in words, the positive impact in our lives will live on in good memories of Mei

Mei is selfless and she kept the families together with her core values of love, care, affection, education and ‘sharity’ not just charity. Mei taught us to go the extra mile!

Kour and I and our kids always feel lucky to be touched by Mei and to be part of the family with Mei in this lifetime.

For over 60 years that I have known Mei and to be with Mei at the last moment of her dignified life is a memory to be cherished forever.

Time flies, a year has passed. For the living, Life goes on. However, fond memories of you, Mei will always remain in our hearts.

For us there is only one MEI and you will always be respected and remembered.

❤️Liap & Kour

It is now a year since. I miss the time that despite of you being swamped, you asked me how I am doing, both in my personal life as well as professionally. I knew how you felt ready to help and agreed to challenging circumstances. You gave honest feedback and on how best to identify growth opportunities. You ensured I was comfortable in the role I am tasked while guiding and grooming us behind out backs. You stood your ground on the ideals you believed in. Few can do such. As it turned out, you had our back...

Time flies but memories are forever, my dear friend!

Mei Ling, as a prime mover in the origins and development of the IMU, had an enormous impact on medicine and the health sciences, not just in Malaysia. But her professional success is not the reason for all these tributes. Rather it was the impact and impression that she made on each and every one of us at a personal level that endeared her so and continues to do so. Mei Ling was an extraordinary individual; intelligent, energetic, observant, thoughtful, kind and caring - and totally unforgettable.

Jennie and I join with all Mei Ling's family, friends, and the wider IMU community in honouring her memory at this time. We miss her. We remember so many occasions with her where her warmth and hospitality shone and the joy she gave to so many. We remember her professionalism and commitment to the IMU and the wonderful legacy she has left. We think of Mark, Wui Leng and Zhou often and hope they are comforted in the knowledge of the love of so many for Mei Ling and for them. Nick and Jennie Glasgow

It's so hard to believe that our dear friend Mei is no longer with us and that it is a year since she passed away. We miss her very much and shall always remember her for her passion for education and, above all, for her for her huge warmth and friendship. Our thoughts and love remain with Mark, Wui Leng and Zhou

Brian and Karen

Mei’s graciousness, big heart, and compassion touched my life professionally working for & with her in IMU. Hard to believe she has left us for a year, we still feel her in IMU. Her fierce resolve in getting things done in IMU , her visible passion in nurturing IMU and her resilience in navigating IMU through very challenging times will always be cherished and remembered because of the lasting impact it made on us & IMU. She is IMU.
She has taught me many valuable lessons in life through how she lived her professional & personal life and influenced me to be a better person.
I miss my guiding light, mentor and friend. Till we meet again, Mei on that beautiful shore.
To Mark, Wui Leng, Zhou & family, we will be there for you all.

Aunty Mei, is a person with a heart of gold. Always so gentle, kind, jovial and hospitable. I always look forward to the amazing festive celebrations that she host every year. Oh what an amazing party host she is! Thank you for being a blessing to all of us Aunty Mei. Rest well and till we meet again.

.A year has gone by since you left us. You may be gone but certainly not forgotten. Memories of you linger on and fondly remembered. May you be at peace always.

Dear Mark and all family, friends, and colleagues of Mei Ling,
As the one year anniversary of Mei's sad death approaches, I hope we can all take comfort in seeing the huge and lasting impact of such a great life.
With love and respect,
Ed

Even though a year had passed, Mei continues to be very much in our hearts and minds, especially among us who worked closely with her. It is still difficult to believe that she is not with us in IMU.

My wife and I recall with sadness Mei’s passing a year ago. We also recall how she fought on until the very end. We will always remember too her fierce intelligence and immense capabilities and compassion.

Tat Chung and Pat

Dr Mei Ling was very compassionate towards the marginalised. A gracious and humble lady, she generously supported one of our Project, i.e. Rumah Pengajian Xavier quietly behind the scene to help sponsor the educational needs of our teenage boys. We have achieved much with her gift of love. We thank you Dr Mei Ling for your invaluable contribution.

Rest in peace now secured in the arms of Jesus.

Irene, President of the Society of St Vincent de Paul, Church of St Francis Xavier, PJ

Dear Aunty Dr Mei Ling
We remember you with love for all that you have done for us. Thank you for supporting our education and helping us to gain knowledge as we strive towards our future.
We promise to continue to work hard.
Rest In Peace dear Aunty Mei Lin

From all the boys in RPX

Mei Ling lives on in her legacy and in her friends' memory.

One year and I miss you just as much. Many occasions, how I wish I can just walk in to your office again and pour my heart out. You made the world a little sunnier. You can never be replaced. Forever missed.

Auntie Mei Ling … love, wisdom, kindness, wit, humour, humility, a brilliant mind, inspiring.. so many words to describe her but always inadequate because she was just so much more. She was pretty perfect. I wish that I saw her more than I did because it was a privilege to be in her presence. She was the most wonderful friend to my parents. I once told her that I believe that we will meet again and that she will meet all her loved ones again. And that we will all recognise each other. I believe that. Much love to Uncle Mark, Auntie’s soul mate.

Jill and I often talk about Mei Ling and our times together. We remember her warmth, kindness and hospitality as well as her amazing ability to get people onside and move things forward. IMU is her legacy - not many people could say they helped create a flourishing medical school,University and health care facilitiy. We are thinking of Mark,the family as well as friends and colleagues on this first anniversary.

Dear Mei,
You are in our hearts forever. We miss you.

Mei’s image often comes to my mind and it’s hard to believe I will not be able to talk with her again. She made such an impression on me and changed the way I thought about many things. A truly remarkable person who it was a privilege to have known.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Mei Ling Young. I had the pleasure of meeting Mei Ling on several occasions during my visits to IMU. I was struck by her kindness, grace and wisdom, and we all benefited from the wisdom that she brought to our discussions. She was a wise and charismatic figure, making strong contributions to fostering relationships with partner universities. She will be sadly missed and forever loved. I extend my condolences on behalf of UNSW Australia.

Thank you

How limited words are when we try to describe some 24 years of life-changing friendship with the wonderful Mei Ling and Mark. How so much more precious these years have been through the privilege and richness of counting them among our most special friends.

Nobody else could have built IMU to what it is today. I remember so well how she negotiated those stormy early AC meetings at IMC and the relationships that she negotiated and nurtured would have come to nothing without her unique combination of determination, warmth and hospitality beyond all human measure. At her wake, Susan described the Vice Chancellor of Strathclyde saying he had been, ‘Mei-Linged’. I too am so very grateful for having been ‘Mei-Linged’.

At Mei Ling’s wake Susan so powerfully listed the words that described Mei; how could we add to those? What we can do is express just how enormously grateful we are to have known such an amazing, and as the young would say, totally awesome person.

John and Anne

  Aunty Mei was so central to my life. She filled my life with such warmth, joy and an abundance of love. She stepped into my life after my father Prof John Bosco died and opened a different window that allowed light to enter again. She had worked closely with him in establishing the clinical school of IMU. I still remember seeing her at the door the day my father had died. I was 17 and had never experienced grief at such magnitude before. Her smile and gentleness reminded me of my dad and I clearly remember feeling less scared. In the absence of my dad, over the many years, Aunty Mei became a tower of support and love. She gave me endless strength, advice, guidance, laughter, all with that famous twinkle in her eyes. She, Uncle Mark and Wui Leng were always present with their support and company. Their family and extended family shined with warmth. Uncle Mark would always have some of the best life insights, being an anchor in times of uncertainty, and being a champion to celebrate when joys appeared. I used to go for lunch with her lovely late father, discuss history, explore his library, realising her warmth, curiosity for knowledge and understanding of this world was also influenced by him. I was able to spend time with her mother, who was beautiful, wise, and strong- i saw her strength in Aunty Mei too. Her son, Wui Leng, who carries her wisdom, humility, kindness and contentment with him, has also been a great friend to me. His wife Zhou too reflects this genuine kindness and steadfastness.
  Aunty Mei encouraged me in my journey of being a doctor. She always saw the best in me whilst giving advice in overcoming challenges. Her passion in finding solutions, the ability to cut through the noise and rise against any setbacks whilst still exuding joy was unmatched. For an anxious young person at that time, this was something I treasured so deeply. This steady reassurance was not only evident in her but also her and Uncle Mark's family. Aunty Susan, Aunty Liap, Uncle Kour and many others also carried this similar radiance. She and Uncle Mark has always cared for my mum. Since 1999, they have been present, supporting my mum through the good and happy occasions, keeping her company and providing a shoulder to lean on in difficult times. Going for meals with Aunty Mei and Uncle Mark and Wui Leng , seeing Aunty Ah ying in their home, were comforting - these times shining like bright stars in my life. Aunty Mei was only a phone call or a conversation away despite how busy they both were.
   Aunty Mei always reminded me of leading a purpose driven life and encouraged me in my service to patients and their families. She recognised my heart beat and continued to support me in that calling. She always felt great joy when IMU students continued to carry the flag where they worked, contributing to others and the greater plan of healthcare.
Healthcare and medical education was something so integral to her. Her compassion for others found its way into the core of IMU where she gave of herself. Her mind focused on the ability of this instituition to continue to give back to Malaysia and offer opportunities for young people from around the world to work in health care. She was always enthusiastic, her eyes would light up when she spoke about the people she worked with in IMU, the various teachers, students , and the growth of the uni - the joy she felt was so palpable. Her founding values are evident in IMU , where most students who attended it still describe their years there as some of the best in their lives and a place where some of the best friendships were found.
  There is a massive gap where Aunty Mei used to stand. Waking up to a world that she is not physically in, is incredibly painful. I give thanks to God for her life. I am so grateful that I met her and her family, and was able to feel all the love and joy she carried for life. I am grateful for the time that I got to spend with her over the years and even when she was sick. I am grateful that she had the ability to keep working and doing all that she loved. Even in her illness, she continued to shine with her deep love of life. Her quiet moments, reflecting her desire to still be of service.
She was so loved and cherished by thousands of people because of her genuine compassion. She gave of herself. I keep imagining visiting her house when I return to KL and am still not prepared to not see her come down the stairs to greet me with a big hug.
She is a mother, wife, aunt, sister, sister in law, friend and colleague. She still had dreams of doing more for people and healthcare in Malaysia and her legacy of kindness lives on.
Love springs eternal, and when I think of love I think of my Aunty Mei Ling. The last few sentences she said to me was "love you too! We have a lot to talk about." I guess I will just have to pick up that conversation in heaven. I love you too Aunty Mei. You are in my heart forevermore.

Thank you for all you have done for the fraternity of private medical education in Malaysia. I was blessed to be a in your path during my time as a student in IMU and also part of the Student Council. Your warmth, sincerity and kindness left and endearing impression even till this day. You always made me feel like you knew me very well even though our interactions were brief and almost always in an official capacity. Thank you for opening your home to us but more so your heart. You will be always remembered and missed. Thank you for the legacy you have created and letting me be part of it in some small way. Rest in peace and see you someday on that beautiful shore.

An extraordinary mentor and leader. Full of positive vibes, would dash in and instantly bright up the office ambience. Her smiles, her gestures, and those sparkling eyes. She gives you the lesson of life; to be kind, to be nice to always stands up high. Always have time to listen and to give advice. Very caring and loving.

You will never leave us. Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed and very dear.

Dr Mei Ling you will be forever remembered and missed. You were full of energy and ideas, always encouraging and motivating to keep improving. Like so many people you have impacted, you have also impacted my thinking and inspired me to be a a better version of me. My deepest condolences to your family.

Mei Ling you were such an inspiration to me and many, many other people. It is difficult to believe that we will no longer be able to have your wisdom and energy alongside us. However your legacy in what you have created at IMU will live on in the people you have touch and inspired. I am very sad because I know your family will be hurting and missing you so much now. I hope it will be of some comfort for them to know how much you were loved, respected and admired. You will be forever in my heart dear friend.
Trudie

Dr Mei Ling Young, you will forever be missed and remembered for the love and light you brought to us, your colleagues at IHH Healthcare.

Though our working relationship was but a brief drop in the ocean, you have left remarkable memories and a legacy that will ripple through the ages. May you rest in peace for you have ran a good race, you have finished your fight and you have indeed kept the faith.

Deepest condolences and prayers to her family and friends.

Mei Ling is a dear friend and mentor to many of us at IMU. She influenced our professional and personal lives through the many nurturing roles she had. Amazing , charismatic, vibrant , passionate, humble are just some of the words to describe a person who has challenged status quo and broken the glass ceiling many times. 
It’s been a privilege to know and work with Mei Ling . I owe the opportunities and successes I have had in medical education to the support and trust given by her . There are countless beautiful stories to share , to celebrate her life and legacy. We will share these stories lovingly amongst good friends, over good food and a glass of wine .
I will miss her so so so much , and my heartfelt condolences to her darling family and many thanks to them for sharing her with us . May her soul rest in peace . Amen.

Mei Ling - the embodiment of 'joie de vivre'. A ball of energy with her huge beaming smile and warm personality, ever ready to charm us into agreeing with an idea or proposal! 

As one of the earlier students when it was still IMC in the PJ site, I know full well the difference Dr Young’s vision has made to many people’s lives allowing many to become doctors and other health related professionals.

As I look at Liverpool where my husband and I (both from IMC) have settled down post graduation, I see the legacy of Dr Young lives on. We have 4 IMC/IMU graduates who are now consultants in a big university teaching hospital on the Wirral where I am, never mind the rest of the other hospitals in Liverpool. We continue to have trainees (undergraduates and postgraduates) from IMU. We have a healthy reminder of IMU’s effect on Liverpool and UK, many who have gone on to be consultants here or elsewhere in the world.

I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to her family and friends. Please let it be known that you have touched many people’s lives. You are an angel and have now gone to be amongst other angels. @cindychu828

A woman of vision, energy, passion, drive and infectious charm! The fingerprints you have left behind on medical education is everywhere to be seen, from giving many young aspirants the opportunity to pursue and realise their dreams, to seeing some of them now serving their communities, helming leading positions in medical research and education. Though sorely missed by all of us here, you can look back with some satisfaction what you had achieved. Requiescat in pace.

I've known Mei Ling since 1988, working with her at the Malaysian Institute of Economic Research and subsequently helping in laying the groundwork for the setting up of the International Medical College. I've seen the courage and tenacity of Mei Ling to push through the formation of the IMC and then IMU. A very generous lady, feeding us ever so often with her home-cooked food, she is always full of life and with so much energy. 

You will be missed. May you Rest in Peace.

Thank you Dr Mei Ling for being such an inspiration to us during the healthcare brand journey. We truly treasure the moments shared, and love the meaningful ramifications of the stories told. Humanity and humour are a powerful combo. Your legacy will live on as we bring the healthcare brand to life!

A true friend, generous to a fault. Mei's bubbling personality was truly infectious. How brave and courageous she was to the very end! The USM days of camaraderie will remain indelible for me. Susan's lovely, moving words at the wake said it all. To Mark and Wui Leng, may Mei’s wonderful spirit stay with you always.

Thank you for everything you have done for me and many others Aunty Mei. From taking the time to ensure I was settling into IMU to listening and acting on my concerns throughout medical school - I feel I wouldn't be where I am today without your immense generosity, kindness and encouragement. I only wish I could have done more to show you my appreciation. Your warmth and loving spirit will be missed forever.

My association with Mei Ling started in 1993 when I joined a small team of academicians & educationists involved in setting up the very first private medical college with international partnerships (IMU). It was indeed a daunting task. Nevertheless I couldn’t but notice Mei’s inexhaustible energy & tenacity when facing the challenges posed before us.
Over the 15 years I worked with her we gradually hit a good friendship between us. Even after my retirement my husband & I continued to enjoy the great hospitality that was extended to us by Mark & Mei. She was a people’s person & loved life. After leading a fulfilling life she has now been called Home. May her soul rest in peace & let’s celebrate her life.

Sent from my iPhone

As Associate Dean International at the University of Melbourne, I had the pleasure of meeting with Dr Mei Ling Young annually on behalf of the Faculty of Medicine Dentistry and Health Sciences over many years. While our focus was the School of Medicine cohort agreement, our meetings were also memorable for their genuine sense of friendship, fun and warmth. I am shocked to learn of Mei Ling's untimely death this week. She deserved a long and rich retirement, which she would have excelled in as in every other life stage. My sincere condolences to her family and her valued IMU colleagues. I would also like to convey my congratulations for her manifold contributions to medical education in Malaysia.

Dr. Mei Ling was always with a smile and during all my encounters with her, exhibited a sense of humility and empathy towards the students and staff alike. A woman of great substance as well as style, she will definitely be missed. Keeping you in our prayers and rest in power, Dr. Mei Ling <3

On several memorable occasions I had the very great honour of being Mei Ling's dinner guest. Immediately her very great and rare combination of warmth, generosity of spirit, deep and penetrating intelligence and insight came through. Mei Ling's work and humanity will live on in generations of students and colleagues - and their students in turn - for many many years to come.