Tiongs and Chongs

My grandfather and Grandmother Chong and the Chong family.

When Great Grandfather Chong came to live in Sibu, he brought some wealth he accumulated in Java. He invested in several acres of rubber land for his son Chong Jin Bok before he went back to Java. He also brought along his youngest daughter, whom we called Aunty Java. (seen in the photo, carrying a baby.

Grand Uncle Chong Jin Bok is wearing a bow tie, and seated on his right is his wife, whom everyone would know as Mrs. JB Chong, a good English teacher.

My great grand parents Chong are seated in the middle and they are wearing the glossy satin suits which at that time, was an indication of wealth and position. In her great grandmother's hands is a photo of the other members of her family , taken in Java.

My grand uncle Chong Jin Bok's sons and daughters are Uncles Chung Sing, Prof Dr. Chung Hian, Chung Ping,  Chung Kiek, Rosemary, Chong Eng and Mary.

Standing behind from left are: Aunty Eng, Uncle Chung Sing, my father (Ta Kang), Uncle Siu King, Uncle Hua King and Aunty Lily.

This photo must have been taken before 1926. According to a family friend, this photo was taken below the hill in Kwong Ann Crescent, where my Great Grandfather Chong built his house for his son. The background would be the rubber trees of his estate. 

Later, Uncle JB Chong acquire his Queensway villa (now the land is owned by the family of the late Hii Yii Peng)

My Grandmother Chong died not long after this photo was taken. She bore my grandfather 9 children. May she rest in peace.