Malaysian actor Evan Siau (萧文亨) is well-known for his acting works. However, what his family and friends will always remember is his strength as he battled cancer. Unfortunately, the dearly loved actor lost the battle and passed away last Saturday, on 19th March.
Evan was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. The actor was receiving treatment for it, but after his 36th birthday on 25th January this year, his condition started to deteriorate. On 19th March at about 7pm, Evan passed away. His family and friends have since been mourning.
The 36-year-old made his mark in many areas in the entertainment industry. Many fondly remember his work in dramas such as “Pulse of Life (脉动人心)”, “I Am Not A Loser (真心不怕输)” and Singapore TV Series “Break Free (曙光)”. Evan also participated in Mister International Malaysia 2021. However, very few knew when he was diagnosed with cancer as he kept the news quiet. He later returned to his hometown in Sabah to spend time with his family. He passed with them by his side but his departure left many friends in the entertainment scene reeling.
Evan’s mentor and friend, Douglas Wong (王衍任) was one of those who took to socials to mourn his passing. He had apparently known about Evan’s illness and had been supporting him during the tough time. Douglas stated they had shared their difficulties with each other as a way of seeking support. “But now, who can I pass it on to?”
Douglas asked. “Hey kid, how am I supposed to accept that you’re really gone?” However, Evan’s mentor knew he had to let him go and penned his final goodbyes: “Hey (Evan), you’re beautiful when life in this world stops. You are now free from sickness and pain, and can be (a) big brother in another, better world.”
Local actress Mandy Chen (陳諭) too had her own sorrow to air and to come to terms with. “You’ve always been a gentleman, but this is the first time you’ve been way too much,” she remarked wryly. “How can you be sick and not tell us? How can you go home first and not let us know?” But Mandy too wished him well in his next life. “I will miss your confidence which shone on stage, your smile and (your) gentleness,” she admitted.
Actor Windz Neom (小風) shared he had no regrets meeting Evan and stated he would always remember his friend as he was. “As a last (memory) to you who paid attention to images, our final photo will not be in black and white but in colour,” Windz promised.
Evan had apparently hoped to live out his days peacefully with his family in Sabah. He also stated that he would not post recent photos of himself. “Let the handsome and skinny Evan always remain in everyone’s impression,” he said. His friends and family have been respecting that wish by posting plenty of photos from times when the actor was healthier but no less happier.
Our hearts go out to Evan’s family and friends. May they find peace in his passing even as they continue to remember and honour Evan as he was and will always be.
Update (Monday, 13th March 2022, 3.00pm):
Evan’s sister Emily has announced that his funeral will be held at Church of Mary Immaculate (Bukit Padang), 88300, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on Wednesday (23rd March).
Sources: China Press, Oriental Daily, Facebook (1)(2)(3), Instagram
