Bumiputra Rockers (BPR) vocalist Johari Mat Rozekhi, better known as Joey BPR, died at Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL) at 8.11am today. He was 63.
Persatuan Seniman Malaysia (Seniman) secretary-general Hafiz Nafiah said the singer reportedly collapsed after performing at an event in KL last night and was subsequently rushed to HKL for treatment.
He said doctors found bleeding in the head and heart-related complications during the examination.
News of Joey’s passing was also shared by his wife, Zarinah Zainal, in a post on his Facebook account this morning.
Hafiz added that Joey was among the prominent figures who helped shape Malaysia’s rock music scene from the 1980s, with BPR becoming active around 1985.
"Joey was instrumental in establishing BPR as one of the rock bands that made a significant impact on Malaysia’s music industry," he said.
According to Hafiz, throughout his career with BPR, Joey performed songs that remain fondly remembered by fans, including Aku Hanya Serangga, Dari Sinar Mata and Seribu Tahun Takkan Mungkin.
Hafiz said Joey’s passing was not only a loss of an experienced singer and entertainer to Seniman, but also of a friend and a dedicated figure in the arts industry who had served as a Seniman committee member.
"Seniman believes that Joey BPR’s name will live on through the songs he helped create with BPR and the memories he leaves behind among fans and members of the Malaysian entertainment industry," he said.
He also expressed his appreciation and gratitude for Joey’s contributions to the Malaysian music and arts industry, and extended his condolences to the family. - Bernama
