Nicoll Highway collapse: 20 years on, colleagues remember 'Hero Heng' who lost his life saving others

Source: CNA

SINGAPORE: Twenty years may have passed, but former colleagues still remember their foreman, whom they affectionately call Hero Heng.

Every Apr 20, they gather at a memorial service with fruits and joss sticks to honour Mr Heng Yeow Pheow, who lost his life saving his workers during the Nicoll Highway collapse in 2004.

His body was never found but his legacy remains close to the hearts of many.

"My heart (is) very sad. I cannot say anything. (It has been a) long time but I still remember. I won't forget," said Mr Phornamdaeng Thiticha.

Mr Thiticha, along with seven others, were pulled to safety by Mr Heng as their worksite crumbled during the incident.

In face of life-threatening danger, the foreman stayed behind to ensure his men were safe.