GEORGE TOWN: If there's one thing K. Simon Murali will never forget about Sukhindarpal Singh Joga Singh, it was the lawyer and activist's compassion.
"He used to tell me that life is meaningless unless we make it meaningful for others," Simon, a fellow lawyer told the New Straits Times.
Simon said that Sukhindarpal, 69, who died yesterday, was always ready to represent those who could not afford a lawyer. He would take on their cases pro bono.
Sukhindarpal's services were valuable to the many migrants and undocumented citizens he represented. He was deeply involved in cases pertaining to immigration.
Simon recalled one case that Sukhindarpal took on, to defend two South African women, a mother and daughter who were accused of trafficking drugs.
"He requested me to be his counsel and both of us conducted the trial pro bono. The High Court acquitted both of them without their defence even being called.
"The Deputy Public Prosecutor appealed to the Court of Appeal, and we won again in the Court of Appeal, which affirmed the acquittal.
"For as long as I knew Sukhindarpal, he was always there to extend a helping hand.
"Indeed, Sukhindarpal was a legend of the Penang Bar. From the inception of his law practice in 2003, he has devoted himself full-heartedly to helping others."
Sukhindarpal, a devout Sikh, passed away in his sleep while recovering from a heart procedure at the Penang Hospital.
A Liverpool fan and avid motorcycle rider, Sukhindarpal was educated at the Penang Free School.
He studied biophysics at Punjab University and later in life, studied law at the University of London.
He graduated in 2002 and began practicing law.
Sukhindarpal leaves behind his wife, Bhupinder Kaur, and three daughters Sukerit, Sohayl, and Seffel.