IPOH (Bernama): The passing of renowned film director Mamat Khalid at the Slim River Hospital on Sunday is a huge loss of an irreplaceable talent, says Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa.

       "Condolences to the family of Mamat Khalid, producer, director and actor. The country has lost a talent that is irreplaceable. May his soul be placed among the righteous. Al-Fatihah,” he tweeted.

       Malaysian Artistes Association (Seniman) secretary-general Hafiz Nafiah was reported to have said that Mamat Khalid, or his real name Mohamad Mohamad Khalid, 58, who was famous for directing films like Zombi Kampung Pisang and Hantu Kak Limah, collapsed at his Sarang Art Hub cafe in Tanjung Malim before being taken to the Slim River Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

       According to Hafiz, Mamat Khalid will be buried at a location in Ipoh later on Sunday morning.

       Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Harun also struck a sad note on Twitter:

       "Al Fatihah. May Allah place Abang Mamat Khalid among those blessed by Him.”

       Several of his 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 ????????,”; and Sharifah Amani, who 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”.- Bernama