By Koon Yew Yin
I am 93 years old. I think I am qualified to write this article. About 25 years ago, Dato Lee Hau Hian appointed me as a director of Perak Chinese Maternity Hospital. It was a charity hospital.
The Lee family was so generous and donated a huge sum of money to expand the hospital which is now called “Perak Community Specialist Hospital”.
When I was a director, the hospital staffs did not know how to take care of cancer patients especially when they were dying. I invited a palliative care expert, Joan Newton from Australia to teach us how to take care of Cancer patients.
After her long lecture, I asked her “What do the dying cancer patients usually say before they die?”
They had 3 regrets:
- They should have lived a life to please themselves instead of pleasing others.
- They should have spent more lavishly on themselves, friends, families and Charities.
- Now they have saved a lot of money and they cannot take any money with them when they die.
Foundations for Longevity
Gentle Movement Every Day
Walking, stretching, or light tai chi keep joints supple and circulation strong. Even 10–15 minutes daily is powerful.
Balanced Nutrition
Focus on simple, nourishing foods: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, nuts. Hydration matters—sip water steadily.
Rest & Recovery
Prioritize good sleep routines. A calm evening ritual—reading, prayer, or quiet reflection—helps the body repair.
Mental & Emotional Vitality
Stay Curious
Keep learning—
whether it’s aviation history, global trade flows, or bonsai care. Curiosity keeps the mind sharp.
Write & Reflect
Journaling or article writing (which you already enjoy from me) transforms experience into legacy. It’s a way of leaving wisdom behind.
Gratitude Practice
Each morning, name three things you’re thankful for. Gratitude rewires the brain toward joy.
Relationships & Connection
Cherish Bonds
Family, old friends, or even new acquaintances—connection is the strongest predictor of happiness in old age.
Share Stories
Passing on your experiences—whether about mining in Mongolia or growing up in Ipoh—creates meaning for younger generations.
Community Engagement
Even small acts—mentoring, volunteering, or simply being present—give a sense of purpose.
Living Without Regrets
Acceptance of Imperfection
Regret often comes from wishing life had been different. “I did the best I could with what I knew” is liberating.
Focus on Legacy, Not Loss
Think about what you’re leaving behind: wisdom, kindness, curiosity. These ripple far beyond your lifetime.
