Selva, you were the single most influential person in my life the past 12 years. There are many things I have to thank you for. For taking me from bars to books, for encouraging and inspiring me, for sharing all your friends and for countless fond memories that I will always cherish. But most of all, for always being there as the brother I never had.
I can never say it enough, but thank you. Farewell for now.
May the wind always be on your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall softly upon your fields
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
MARVIN YEO
London, 18th April 2002
When Selva was in Singapore, we spent much time building up the original �Wong San�s, he was always a pillar and I mean literally a foundation at the bar. And as Sathia always says, ��.we were the original Wong San�s gang!� We had many great memories at Porstdown Road too.
When Selva moved to London, I visited him on a number of occasions and our friendship not only grew stronger but my respect for him also grew. I was also delighted to know that it did not take him long to forge many new friendships in London just like in Singapore.
Having read some of the dedications here, I came across common experiences which many of his friends had from his past and present. I remember a night out in London some years back, we were at a bar in Chelsea and we met a local chap who was a building painter. This chap had a couple of drinks too many and was starting to pick an argument with Selva and I. Selva spoke to him with great tact, wit and humor. At the end of the night, Selva had found a new friend once again! Selva�s amazing affable personality is something we will all missed. True to form, I am sure Selva will form many new friendships in his resting place.
Selva is also a gentleman of fine character and immaculate tastes in life. One of immense generosity. One who is held in high esteem amongst the boys. One whose wit always jogged my mind during our many debates over beers and gin tonics. And one who truly had a sense of humor.
Mention Selva and everybody who knows him calls him a buddy. Even acquaintances call him a friend. You will be missed for being a true friend and a buddy to all.
Alfred Lim
When Helen got married it seemed she got two for the price of one, a great deal. I just took it for granted he was part of their home and family and seeing him in action with the boys he was a brilliant uncle.
We all caught up before Christmas in London and I was amazed when I saw Joyce on the bookshelf and he had read it. (scary......who has read Joyce?)We had a great chat about his books and it was fab to meet someone as
eclectic and diverse in his reading material and who really enjoyed them. That night summed him up, he had time for his mates and the kids and he hadn't changed a bit in all those years since Singapore. He was just
himself.
I reckon the world could be doing with a lot more of Selva's spirit and kindness and sincerity. They are precious gifts and they were a fabulous gift to receive. They say here "an ounce of breeding is worth a tonne of
feeding" and I reckon Selva's mom should be especially proud of her son.
Selva recently was helping me out on a project and his belief in me really helped.......I owe him a lot of Guinness and as I'm certain he's still around, I'm going to make sure his belief in folk is kept alive. Slainte
Selva........enjoy your new life.
JANE GRANT