SIBU: About 1,500 people – many who fly in from West Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and China, bid farewell to timber and media mogul Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King.

The Rimbunan Hijau Group founder was laid to rest at Tiong’s Memorial Park here at noon.

Earlier, the hearse left Tiong’s home to Xin Fu Yuan Methodist Church for a memorial service and final prayers.

Tiong’s brother Datuk Tiong Thai King, son Chiong Ong, daughter Datuk Tiong Ing, son-in-law and two grandsons shared eulogies at the memorial service held at the church.

Chiong Ong said Tiong was humble and simple throughout his life.

He did not have expensive watches, branded car and a private jet.

He only kept a driver with him and did not have a bodyguard. 

After the memorial service, the hearse made its way past several places deeply connected to Tiong: the Rimbunan Hijau Group headquarters, which he established with his siblings 50 years ago; the Tiong Clan Association in Sibu; and the Kingwood Hotel.

Rimbunan Hijau Group employees of the group stood by the roadside, bidding farewell to their respected to the founder.

Tiong, the executive chairman of the Rimbunan Hijau Group and honorary chairman of Media Chinese International Ltd, passed away at 11 am on November 11. He was 95.

Since news of his passing broke, friends and associates from Malaysia and abroad have been visiting to pay their last respects.

Nearly 500 wreaths were sent, along with more than 200 condolence messages from overseas.

In Malaysia, there are four publicly listed companies under the group, namely Subur Tiasa Holdings Bhd, Jaya Tiasa Holdings Bhd, Rimbunan Sawit Bhd and Media Chinese International Ltd.

According to Forbes, Tiong has an estimated net worth of US$820 million (RM3.5 billion), ranking 25th on the list of the 50 Richest People in Malaysia in 2025.