Moses Lim, 73, On Why He Chose Not To Have A Pacemaker Implanted Despite His Heart Issues

Veteran comedian Moses Lim is someone Singaporeans grew up watching. First, as a co-host on one of Singapore's most iconic comedy shows Comedy Nite, then as Tan Ah Teck in beloved sitcom Under One Roof.

He faded out of showbiz after his 2012 stage play Happily Ever Laughter.

Since then, the 73-year-old has found a career as a food critic and F&B consultant. He's also a popular food guide. Before the pandemic struck, he would lead groups of up to 200 travelers to countries like China for food tours.

In a recent interview with 8world, Moses, who had heart surgery in 2018, revealed that he was diagnosed with slow pulse rate six months ago. He was advised by his doctor to implant an artificial cardiac pacemaker but Moses decided against it. 

He felt that at his age, it's better to avoid surgeries — his operation in 2018 was met with complications and it took him three months to recover.

"But choosing not to [implant the artificial cardiac pacemaker] has its risks too," Moses added.

According to Moses, since his condition wasn't considered very urgent then, his doctor decided to place him under observation for the next six months. They would then see if he has to implant the pacemaker after that.

"At the point when we found out that my pulse is relatively slow, my usual movements, speech and lifestyle were not actually affected. That's why I was unwilling to implant the pacemaker," explained Moses.

The foodie, however, become more conscious about his diet, and started to exercise self-control when enjoying good food. 

Luckily, when Moses did his body scan six months later, the doctor found that his pulse and heartbeat were all normal, which meant that there was no need for him to implant the pacemaker right away. 

"My pulse actually didn't become very good all of a sudden, it's just in a stable state now," explained Moses. "Other than taking Western medicine, some of my friends who practise Traditional Chinese Medicine also help to monitor for me too," he said. 

He went on to assure readers that he doesn't have any major issues with his health right now.

"I dare not say that I want to regain 100 per cent of my health. Right now I just have to pay more attention to my living habits and try my best to stay relaxed," he said.

You're probably wondering, is Moses planning to return to showbiz?

"Probably not yet!" he said. "I feel that those days [being in front of the camera] are more taxing. I really need to live my life calmly now."

What Moses, who has been married to his wife Monica for 46 years, wants to do now is to "have good food and enjoy life."

"Many of my friends love to eat, they know that I do too, so we'll always meet and go to different places to find food," he gushed.

Moses, who has two daughters Grace, 45, and Angela, 44, said he wouldn't be tempted even if a good or high-paying role comes knocking at his door 'cos he just doesn't think about acting anymore. 

"Now I focus my attention on my faith. I feel very happy as long as I get to visit different churches to give my testimony. I'm willing to devote the rest of my life to my religion," said Moses.

Photos: Salt&Light, meWATCH

Catch Moses in Under One Roof on meWATCH below: