PETALING JAYA: Former national hammer thrower Semret Singh has passed away at the age of 66.

       The two-time SEA Games gold medallist collapsed at his residence in Sungai Buloh on Tuesday morning (Feb 15).

       The late Semret’s body was sent for a post-mortem at the Sungai Buloh hospital to determine the cause of his death.

       His coach - national athletics legend Datuk Nashatar Singh - said Semret’s loss would be felt by the athletics and Sikh community in Malaysia.

       "I trained him when I was in the police force. He was a dedicated athlete, always emphasising the value of hard work. We built a cage for him to train his hammer throws," said the 82-year-old.

       "He got into the hammer throw because his father (Ghenda Singh) was also into it. So he had the basics and made sure to do better during his time with the police," added Nashatar.

       Nashatar said that Semret was sent to Perth, Australia and Germany to train during his time as an athlete, adding that Semret loved the sport.

       "He was also someone who loved life. He was jovial with everyone and made sure to help those in need. His loss would surely be felt by everyone who knows him."