Veteran Singaporean Singer Ling Xiao Dies at 75 After Battle with Illness
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A beloved figure in the Singaporean music scene, Ling Xiao-born Tan Choon Huat-passed away on Saturday, December 13, at the age of 75, following a period of declining health. The singer, known for his enduring popularity in the 1970s, leaves behind a legacy of over 100 Mandarin albums and a lasting impact on local entertainment.
A Career Spanning decades
Ling Xiao first rose to prominence in 1967, achieving second place in a singing competition hosted by radio station Rediffusion. His striking appearance quickly propelled him to fame, and he became a mainstay in the Mandarin music industry for decades. Beyond his recording career, Ling Xiao remained a visible presence in Singaporean entertainment, serving as a resident mentor on Mediacorp’s Golden Age Talentime for many years.Even into his seventies, audiences consistently regarded him as a remarkably youthful and vibrant performer.
Health Struggles and a Difficult Final Chapter
In 2022,Ling Xiao suffered a stroke that paralyzed the right side of his body,significantly impacting his ability to care for himself. this led to a gradual withdrawal from public life as his health deteriorated.According to reports from local media outlet 8world, Ling Xiao had pre-existing conditions including hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes prior to the stroke.
Initially, Ling Xiao responded positively to traditional Chinese acupuncture treatments, and his condition stabilized. However, his sister, Jeci, who cared for him for the past three years, revealed that he stubbornly refused physiotherapy. “My brother was very stubborn. He refused to undergo physiotherapy,saying that at his age he would have to start all over again like a child … and that it was a waste of time,” she told 8world. Jeci expressed regret, stating, “Had he agreed to physiotherapy then, ‘perhaps he wouldn’t have left us so soon.'”
Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis and Final Wishes
Ling Xiao’s health continued to fluctuate, requiring multiple hospitalizations in recent years. During a recent stay, he was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer after complaining of pain throughout his body. Doctors steadfast his heart was too weak for aggressive treatments like chemotherapy, estimating he had approximately six months to live.
Respecting his repeated desire to return home, the family discharged him on November 25. However, severe inflammation in his knees and overall weakness prevented continued dialysis-a treatment he had been receiving since 2022. In the ten days before his death, Ling Xiao was unable to eat.
A Sister’s Devotion and Grief
Caring for Ling Xiao took a significant physical and emotional toll on Jeci, who described herself as devastated by his passing. She acknowledged the exhaustion of providing constant care for the past three years.
Funeral Arrangements
Ling Xiao’s wake is currently being held at Block 116A Bukit Merah Central, with the fun
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