Close friend’s tribute to Felicia Teo :
It took me a few days to find the courage to type this out but here goes…
Hey Fel,
Do you remember that day when you said that you wanted to throw eggs at my ex-bf’s house door ’cause you were so mad that he made me cry?
Do you remember how we used to pretend to go to school but we’d end up at your void deck; you doing your arty stuff and me reading your mum’s Dhammapada?
Do you remember how badly we cried because the kayak capsized during the competition and we were so damn close to winning?
Do you remember that time when my late mummy cooked for you your favourite sambal goreng?
Do you remember that time I introduced you to Ana and the three of us ended up being sisters from different families?
Do you remember promising me that you’ll be there for my wedding, be the godparent of my kids, and that you will love them like they’re your own?
Do you remember all those things and more, Fel? Because I do, I’m pretty sure that you do too. We had such a great time together didn’t we, Fel?
People used to ask, “how did you both become best friends?” Our answer would always be, “We didn’t like each other at first.” We’d say, “She’s too ah lian” or “she’s too minah.” But, we somehow became friends and got stuck with each other.
You were the first person to call me an “educated minah”.
You were the brave one, always fiercely protecting me when you saw the need for it.
You wanted an old-fashioned Malay name, so we came up with one for you. Hence the name, Gayah a.k.a Siti Nur Rogayah which stayed with you till today.
The night before my wedding, you called me and we had a short chat. You said you were heading out and that you’d see me at home in the morning. I told you to take care and that I couldn’t wait to see you and Ana. How was I to know… that would be our last conversation?
I am so sorry Fel. I’m sorry that I couldn’t protect you like how you used to protect me. I’m sorry that I wasn’t there for you.
13 years is a very long time for you to be away. I miss you so, so much. I hope that we can find you soon so that you can be put to rest and be at peace. I love you, forever and always.