Celebrating the Life & Career of
Tan Sri Dato' V.C. George
Brickfields Asia College (BAC) was honored to host an inspiring event celebrating Tan Sri Dato' V.C. George, a towering figure in Malaysia’s legal fraternity whose contributions to the profession, judiciary, and legal education are unparalleled. At 93 years young, Tan Sri Dato' V.C. George exemplifies brilliance, wit, and an unwavering commitment to justice, proving that age is merely a number when passion and sharpness of mind reign supreme.
A Polymath's Journey
Tan Sri Dato' V.C. George’s life story is one of determination, resilience, and extraordinary versatility. Though his parents envisioned a career in medicine for him, leading him to pursue dentistry, Tan Sri quickly realised it wasn’t his calling. He pivoted to law, a decision that would shape the landscape of Malaysia's judiciary.
His journey was not without challenges. The Japanese occupation during World War II robbed him of four critical years of education. During this time, Tan Sri served as a Tamil-Japanese interpreter, a testament to his adaptability and linguistic prowess. Despite these setbacks, he returned to education with a relentless determination, eventually becoming one of Malaysia's most accomplished judges and lawyers.
A Career of Unparalleled Integrity
Tan Sri's path to success was rooted in the values of integrity instilled by his parents. Despite scepticism from those around him— some questioned his moral standing when he aspired to become a judge — he remained steadfast, proving that ethics and excellence go hand in hand.
His legal career had a humble beginning, handling motor accident and insurance cases. These early days saw him pitted against some of the country’s finest legal minds, yet he emerged victorious in many instances, showcasing his legal acumen.
For decades, Tan Sri Dato' V.C. George has been an inspiration, not just through his judicial achievements but also in his mentorship to young legal minds. His advice to BAC students, “Just because there are 20,000 lawyers, it does not mean you can’t make your way to the top,” reminds aspiring lawyers that hard work and dedication pave the road to success.
Giving Back
In 2020, Tan Sri self-published Some Stories I Have Told and Some That I Haven’t, a book brimming with witticisms and insights. Proceeds from the book, amounting to over RM 60,000, were donated to charity, reflecting his deep sense of social responsibility.
It was a privilege to hear his reflections and anecdotes. Even more delightful was diving into his book, a brilliant showcase of his trademark humor and incisive mind.
A Personal Touch
The event culminated in a book-signing session, where attendees had the rare opportunity to have their copies of the second edition of Some Stories I Have Told and Some That I Haven’t autographed by Tan Sri himself. This memorable moment allowed participants to connect personally with the legal icon, making the day even more special.
Shastini Nair, Programme Manager (UOL) at BAC, added a heartfelt note to the event by asking Tan Sri about the most memorable moment in his life. Without hesitation, he replied, “The day my wife agreed to marry me.” His response underscored his profound affection for his late wife, Dr. Rebecca George, a pioneering paediatrician who left an indelible mark on children’s healthcare in Malaysia.