Qing Ming with the descendants of Tan Tock Seng (2026)

I am fortunate to yet again to meet Roney Tan and other Tan Tock Seng clan members who were carrying out their annual tradition of visiting and paying respects to their ancestors, Tan Tock Seng, Tan Kim Ching, Tan Boo Liat, Tan Wi Yan , Mrs. Tan Wi Yan this year. 

Again this time around, i managed to catch them at the tomb of Tan Boo Liat (son of Tan Soon Toh, grandson of Tan Kim Ching and great grandson of Tan Tock Seng) at Bukit Brown. Yet again, there was big group with multi-generation presence showing that the Qing Ming traditions have been clearly passed on from generation to generation. I also do believe that Roney Tan of course played the biggest role in organising this event and keeping this tradition strong and alive. 

The last time i met them paying respects was in 2024 and in 2022 . My chance meeting in 2024 was especially special for me because after Bukit Brown, i accompanied Roney to also visit Tan Tock Seng tomb in Tiong Bahru, Outram Road. 

Descendants of Tan Tock Seng paying respects at Tan Boo Liat's tomb (Qing Ming 2026)

Descendants of Tan Tock Seng paying respects at Tan Boo Liat's tomb (Qing Ming 2026)

Descendants of Tan Tock Seng paying respects at Tan Boo Liat's tomb (Qing Ming 2026)

About Tan Boo Liat

Tan Boo Liat gravestone indicates his given title awarded by the King of Siam - Phra Anakul Sayamkitch. This is because he and his family (especially his grandfather, Tan Kim Ching) has close relationship to the King of Siam due to the business dealings they have.

Tan Boo Liat passed away at the age of 60 on 3 October 1934 in Shanghai, China. His body was embalmed and return to Singapore in a bronze casket via a ship called "President Johnson". The cortege left 117, Emerald Hill Road for Bukit Brown. He is survived by 3 sons; Tan Toon Hor, Tan Toon Lay, Tan Toon Sinn, three daughters; Mrs. Seow Poh Leng, Mrs. Wee Chye Hin, Kitty Tan, two adopted daughters, Annie and Mui Mui and 12 grandchildren.

Tan Boo Liat