Thousands line the streets in final farewell to casino tycoon

About 6,000 people - family members, relatives and members of the public - crowded the small, rain-soaked hill town of Gohtong Jaya yesterday to bid a final farewell to Lim Goh Tong, the man who had turned the jungle-clad hilltop into a billion-dollar empire.

Lim, who died a week ago at the age of 90, was buried at a private mausoleum near the town located halfway between the capital and the Genting casino, at exactly 1.18pm, considered an auspicious time by Lim's family.

Thousands of people attended the funeral procession, but the burial ceremony was only attended by family members, relatives and a few invited guests. The media was not allowed to take photographs because of 'Chinese taboos'.

Lim leaves his wife Lee Kim Hua, 76, six children and 19 grandchildren.

'His was a great life, full of achievements, success, philanthropy and service to his community and country,' said Ong Ka Ting, president of the Malaysian Chinese Association, the biggest Chinese political party, during a eulogy for Lim.

'He was one of our greatest sons,' Mr Ong said before the flower-decked cortege led by scores of grieving family members weaved its from the palatial villa to the Chin Swee Caves Temple up the hill for more prayers.

The cortege then moved to the hilltop Genting Hotel overlooking the famous Genting Casino for employees to pay their last respect before heading down again to the Gohtong Memorial Park for burial.