IPOH: The passing of renowned film director Mamat Khalid is a “loss of a star” to the local creative arts, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

       He said Mamat, whose real name was Mohamad Mohamad Khalid, was among the nation’s renowned and respected producers in the country’s film industry.

       “Condolences to his family. May his soul be showered with the blessings of Allah SWT and placed among the righteous,” Ismail Sabri said in a Facebook post.

       Mamat, 58, is the younger brother of cartoonist Datuk Mohammad Nor Khalid, better known as Lat.

       Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa said his passing was a huge loss.

       Mamat, a talent deeply missed. — Bernama“Condolences to the family of Mamat Khalid, producer, director and actor. The country has lost a talent that is irreplaceable,” he tweeted.

       National Unity Minister Datuk Halimah Mohamed Sadique described Mamat as a hero who fought for unity through his films.

       She said the film director had left a beautiful legacy with his messages on racial unity in his great works.

       “Art is a medium that can be used as a platform to unite the people of all races and ethnicities in the country.

       “Just like the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee, who left a legacy of art for decades to the entire multiracial community in Malaysia, I see Mamat Khalid like that too,” she said in a statement.

       Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu said he regarded Mamat as his own brother.

       “We grew up together in Kampung Sungai Rokam, Ipoh, and I am very close to his family, including his wife. Personally, it is a huge loss to me.

       “Let us pray that Allahyarham’s soul will be blessed and that he may placed among the righteous,” he said.

       Several close celebrity friends also expressed their condolences and shock at the news, including actor Que Haidar, who wrote: “Among the earlier directors to recognise my talent. Al Fatihah to Abang Mamat.”

       Another friend Sharifah Amani said: “Thank you Abang Mamat for the years of love and dedication towards your craft and country. You will be truly missed. May you be at peace there. Condolences to his family and dear friends. Al Fatihah.”

       Mamat, who was born in Ipoh, is survived by his wife Hasmah Hassan and five children – three sons Mohd Khalid Amen, Mohd Khalid Adam, Mohd Khalid Zaffa, and two daughters Sara and Nurhassanah.

       Among his more well-known films are Zombi Kampung Pisang, Hantu Kak Limah, Rock and 18 Puasa di Kampong Pisang, which struck a chord with fans of the comedy and family entertainment genre.

       Apart from devoting his time to the film industry, he was also the owner of the Sarang Art Hub cafe in Tanjung Malim, which he opened in 2016.

       Mohd Khalid Adam said his father was playing the Apokalips song on the keyboard at Sarang Art Hub when he suddenly collapsed at about 10.30pm on Saturday.

       “He did not complain of any pain prior to the incident. We immediately called for an ambulance and papa breathed his last while being sent to hospital,” he said, adding that his father had a history of heart problems.

       Mamat was laid to rest at the Masjid Paloh Muslim Cemetery here at about 2.25pm.

       About 300 people gathered at the cemetery to pay their last respects.