Established in 1987, Purple Cane (紫藤) has been a blessing to tea lovers with their love and passion for the art of tea, thanks to founder Mr. Lim Hock Lam (林福南). Unfortunately, it was announced yesterday (14th December) that Mr. Lim Hock Lam had passed away.
As some may know, Mr. Lim had been sick and had been undergoing treatment prior to the announcement of his passing. Still, it came as a shock to many when it was revealed he had passed from a heart attack on 14th December at the age of 63.
The news was announced on Purple Cane’s Facebook, reading as such: “With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful departure of our beloved Purple Cane Founder, Mr. Lim Hock Lam, on the afternoon of 14th December 2023.” The post added that the funeral arrangements would be announced soon.
Mr. Lim had been hospitalised early September this year, allegedly for heart issues. At the time, he left a post on his Facebook, simply reading: “Goodbye.” Unfortunately, his farewell held true when he passed away yesterday at Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur (CVSKL). According to Chinese media, Mr. Lim had been undergoing plasma exchange, tracheostomy and other surgeries.
He allegedly was discharged on 2nd November after staying in the hospital for a few months but was regretfully re-hospitalised last week due to an infection. On the morning of 14th December, his family members were informed that his heartbeat was slow and he was in a critical state. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, he passed away at 2pm.
Our hearts go out to all who knew Mr. Lim Hock Lam and we pray they will find peace in his passing. Regardless, he will be remembered as a pioneer in Malaysia’s tea industry with his legacy of Purple Cane and all the good it has done for its community.
Sources: Facebook (1)(2), China Press, Sin Chew Daily, Oriental Daily
