Born: 1898, Malaysia
Died: 3 February 1979
Country most active: Malaysia
Also known as: Mrs. B. H. Oon
Lim Beng Hong, widely known as Mrs. B. H. Oon, was a trailblazing legal and political figure in British Malaya, renowned for her pioneering achievements and contributions to women’s representation in law and politics.
Born in Butterworth, Penang, in 1903, to a prosperous family, Oon embarked on a remarkable journey in education and law. After obtaining a law degree from University College London, she and her brother made legal history by becoming the first brother-sister duo to be called to the English Bar on the same night in 1926. In 1927, Oon returned to Penang, breaking gender barriers by becoming the first woman admitted to the Malayan Bar.
During World War II, Oon demonstrated courage by smuggling letters to prisoners of war in Changi prison. Post-war, she became the first woman lawmaker in Malaya, serving on the Federal Legislative Council from 1948 to 1955. Engaging in politics, she joined the Labour Party, contributing to the creation of the “Woman’s Charter.” Oon received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) Award in 1953 for her outstanding contributions.
Her dedication extended internationally, as she was elected President of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in 1977. Lim Beng Hong’s legacy stands as a beacon of empowerment, breaking barriers for women in law and politics in British Malaya.