Ex-guide seeks to retain some control over widow's fortune

Former China tour guide Yang Yin yesterday applied to the court to maintain some control over a widow's estimated $40 million assets after his Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) was revoked last month.

The 40-year-old, who is also a beneficiary in Madam Chung Khin Chun's will, filed to become a defendant in the case brought by Madam Chung's niece, Madam Hedy Mok, who is applying for full deputy powers to manage her assets and daily matters.

As the 87-year-old suffers from dementia, this would allow Madam Mok to manage her aunt's assets on her behalf.

Yang's lawyer Joseph Liow said that being a defendant in the case would mean that Yang could object to Madam Mok's application or ask the court to set limits on her powers.

Earlier, the court had granted Madam Mok only limited deputy powers to commence legal proceedings on behalf of her aunt to preserve or recover her assets.

Mr Liow added that Yang has "the right to object" to her application as he has an interest in Madam Chung's estate.

In 2010, the wealthy widow changed her will to appoint Yang as the sole executor and beneficiary of her estate.

"All options are open at this time," Mr Liow said.

The next court session will take place on Jan 15.

Yang, a Chinese national, separately faces 334 charges for immigration offences and falsifying receipts made to his company, Young Music and Dance Studio.

He met the widow in 2008 while acting as her personal tour guide on a trip to Beijing. A year later, he moved in with the widow, who has no children, at her Gerald Crescent bungalow - estimated to be worth $30 million.

Yang is also involved in a separate lawsuit brought by Madam Mok, who is trying to add his wife, parents and previous bailor as defendants.

She has alleged that Yang manipulated her aunt into handing over her assets.

kcarolyn@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on Dec 11, 2014.
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