Antique collector LJ dies of heart failure

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Lucas and his latest specially made painting for Miri Library.

MIRI: Miri and Malaysia have lost an avid antique and philately collector, Lucas Johnny, who died from heart failure at Miri Hospital yesterday afternoon after a short illness.

Lucas is not only known to have exhibited his vast collections of rare stamps and stones but also shared his knowledge of the subjects with the people.

Pustaka Negeri Sarawak Miri has been one of his best partners in exhibiting his collections including at the recent Sarawakiana Carnival held early this month in conjunction with Pustaka Negeri Sarawak’s 15th anniversary and Miri City’s 10th anniversary celebration, and Miri May Fest 2015.

Lucas, who hails from Sibu was also the prime mover, jointly with Pustaka Miri and Miri City Council, in creating the longest philately line which entered the Malaysia Book of Records on May 25, 2013.

The library’s regional manager Salina Zawawi described Lucas’ death as shocking and a big loss to Pustaka Miri and the public as a whole.

“Lucas was one of ‘friends of the library’ who contributed immensely to our activities over the years. He shared not only his antique collections for exhibitions but also knowledge of the items.

He was our living dictionary on many things.

“He gave the library rare stamps and the latest, a specially designed painting,” Salina said when contacted yesterday.

Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Kim Shin said Lucas’ demise was a great loss to Mirians as he was very knowledgeable on both local and international social and cultural issues.

“His vast collections and knowledge on antiques and other social items are invaluable. He will be dearly missed and on behalf of the people of Miri, I wish to convey our deepest sympathy and condolence to his family.”

Lucas, fondly known as LJ was also well known especially among local radio listeners through his special radio programme – ‘Segmen Lagu-Lagu Lama’ aired over the Iban service of Mirifm from noon to 1.30pm every Tuesday.

Staff of the radio station said Lucas had assisted Klasik FM, Angkaspuri in the early years of establishment of the radio section.

His remains will be sent to Sibu for burial.