SIBU, SARAWAK, MALAYSIA – Tan Sri ⁣Tiong Hiew⁣ King, the executive chairman of the Rimbunan⁤ Hijau Group and honorary chairman of Media⁤ Chinese International Limited (MCIL), passed away⁢ today, November 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM local time. He was 95 years old.

Tiong is survived by his wife, Puan Sri Ngu Yii Chuo, and five children: Tiong Chiong Ong, Datuk Tiong Ing, Tiong Ching, Tiong Chiew, and Tiong Choon. He was predeceased by his youngest son, Datuk Sri Tiong Chiong Hoo, who died in December 2020.

Business Empire: Timber and Media

Tiong Hiew King built a vast business empire centered around the timber industry through the Rimbunan Hijau Group. The company has been a major player in the logging and forestry sector ⁣in Malaysia and⁤ Papua New Guinea facing criticism for its environmental impact. Beyond timber, Tiong was a prominent figure ⁤in the Chinese media world.

He controlled a significant portfolio of Chinese newspapers through Media Chinese International Limited (MCIL). MCIL was formed through the merger of Ming Pao ⁢Enterprise Corporation Limited, Sin Chew Media Corporation⁤ Bhd, and Nanyang Press Holdings Bhd (MCIL official website). The company serves a global audience of⁢ Chinese readers in Southeast Asia, Greater China, and North America.

MCIL’s holdings include⁣ prominent ⁣publications such as Sin Chew Daily, China Press, and Ming Pao Daily News. These newspapers are influential⁤ sources of details and opinion for the Chinese diaspora worldwide.

Recognition and Awards

Tiong Hiew King’s contributions were recognized with numerous accolades throughout his career. In 2010, he received the Lifetime‍ Achievement Award at the Malaysian Business Leadership Awards, presented by the Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (The Star, November 20, 2010), honoring his business accomplishments and national contributions.

Memorial Service

A memorial service will be held ⁣at ⁢8:30 AM on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Xin Fu Yuan Methodist Church in Sibu.