In a world where love stories are often rushed, the tale of Workers’ Party chairwoman Sylvia Lim and former football star Quah Kim Song brings a refreshing reminder that love truly knows no timeline.
After 12 years of companionship and shared passions, these two beloved figures in Singapore’s public eye are finally taking their love to the altar, with a wedding planned for January 2025.
While many of us might assume that a couple who has shared over a decade together would have considered marriage earlier, both Sylvia Lim and Quah Kim Song took their time – a choice they hope inspires others in a similar phase of life.
As Lim put it simply, “It takes time to know someone, and we were in no rush.” Quah Kim Song, ever the romantic, added, “After 12 blissful and blessed years, we decided that it’s time for us to complete the journey, all the way.”
For Singaporean parents reading this, it’s a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, waiting can make the love even sweeter.
A Love Rooted in Music and Sports
The spark between Sylvia Lim and Quah Kim Song first ignited over their shared love of music, a passion that continues to connect them. In 2013, at a Workers’ Party charity concert, Quah charmed Lim with a song, and from there, they built a relationship grounded in common interests and mutual respect.
For Quah, the sport that once defined his life as a striker in Singapore’s iconic 1977 Malaysia Cup victory remains a big part of who he is. Lim, equally passionate in her career as a politician, complements Quah’s legacy with her own commitment to public service.
Parents, how often do we share our passions with those close to us, be it sports, music, or community work? For Lim and Quah, it was precisely these shared interests that strengthened their bond and made their connection flourish over time.
“It’s Precious to Have Someone to Share Your Life With”
For Quah Kim Song, now 72, life alone was never the plan. After losing his first wife, Shirley Wang, to cancer in 2007, he knew the profound impact of companionship. Speaking openly about loneliness in one’s older years, Quah encourages others to take heart and embrace love, regardless of age.
“Loneliness can be very frightening,” he says. “It’s precious to have someone to share your life with in your older years.”
For Singaporean parents who may be single or raising kids on their own, Quah’s words are a reminder that love can come at any stage of life. His own journey shows that companionship brings comfort, even when the demands of life seem all-consuming.
A Special Church Wedding at St Mary of the Angels
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January’s wedding will be a meaningful occasion for many reasons, not least because of the venue. The couple’s marriage will be solemnized at the Church of St Mary of the Angels, where Sylvia Lim once sang in the choir. Lim, who has attended countless weddings at this church, is thrilled that her own big day will be there, sharing, “Holy matrimony is a Catholic sacrament that we embrace. Having sung at many church weddings over the decades in that same church, I finally get to prepare for my own there. It’s amazing.”
For parents who may have seen their own children married in special places, or who have memories of their wedding venues, Lim’s sentiments hit home. Venues like St Mary’s bring layers of meaning to the celebration and become places where new chapters begin.
Family Support and Approval
The love and support of family mean everything to Quah Kim Song, who’s overjoyed that his children, Leon and Leonora, welcome his marriage to Sylvia. With five grandchildren of his own, the family remains at the centre of his life. In fact, one of his granddaughters, upon hearing the news, expressed surprise that the two were not already married!
As Singaporean parents, we often think of how family impacts our lives, decisions, and relationships. In this case, Quah and Sylvia’s journey shows that love can seamlessly blend into family, especially when support and open communication are prioritized.
Together in Public and Private Life
What makes the relationship between Quah Kim Song and Sylvia Lim so unique is how they each bring out the best in one another. For Lim, Quah’s calm wisdom and grounded nature are traits she admires. She shares, “He gives me good advice about how not to sweat the small stuff. This comes from his life experience.” Quah, in turn, respects Sylvia’s determination and her willingness to face difficult situations head-on, especially in the political realm. “She will speak her mind publicly and is prepared to stand up for what she believes in,” he says.
With a general election expected as soon as 2025, Lim’s commitment to her role in Singaporean politics may require a delayed honeymoon. Reflecting her practical side and sense of humor, she quipped, “If the Prime Minister will give information about when the general election will be called, then maybe we can plan for a honeymoon!”
What This Story Means for Parents and Families
So, what can Singaporean parents take away from the love story of Quah Kim Song and Sylvia Lim? Their journey reminds us that love doesn’t fade with age – it grows stronger, deeper, and more cherished.
Whether you’re single, in a committed relationship, or somewhere in between, their story offers a glimpse into the power of companionship and the importance of patience. Love can wait, but when it finally arrives, it’s worth every moment spent waiting.
Celebrate the Love Stories Around You
As parents, we often focus on our children’s journeys – but don’t forget your own. Quah Kim Song and Sylvia Lim’s story shows us that love is as much about taking your time as it is about courage and commitment.
In your own life, take a moment to appreciate the love around you, or take that first step if you’ve been waiting to connect with someone special.
After all, as Quah said, “Loneliness can be very frightening.” The gift of companionship is a precious one – don’t let it pass you by.
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