Malaysians pay homage to the 'father of all superheroes'

Stan Lee with a life size model of his superhero Spider-Man while in his office in Beverly Hills, California on Dec 18, 2008.

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians joined the world in paying tribute to Stan Lee, the iconic figure responsible for creating some of the most beloved superheroes around.

The American comic book creator passed away on Tuesday (Nov 13) aged 95.

The Star's former associate editor and comic book enthusiast Davin Arul, 57, said Lee had a way with creating extraordinary characters that spoke to ordinary people.

"His characters had all these amazing powers but also had problems like the rest of us – having to pay the bills, keep up with studies, cope with family troubles and so forth."

Process design engineer Daniel Wong, 28, said one of Lee's characters – billionaire inventor Tony Stark – inspired him to be who he is today.

"His work on Iron Man relates to me as an engineer. It inspires me to strive to make technological advancements to better mankind."

Kaleon Rahan, who has been writing for The Star's comics column Worlds Of Wonder since 1996, said Marvel Comics, which Lee co-created, brought him and his father closer.

"My father was a huge fan of comic books and he introduced me to my first Marvel comic, The Man Called Nova #1 (published in 1976), when I was four.

"We spent a lot of quality time together talking about comic books and storylines."

Kaleon, 45, who is now a father of four, added: "Today, I've passed down this love for comic books to my children as well.

"I've always found the visual form of storytelling very impactful, which encourages children to be imaginative."

On Facebook, many Malaysians expressed their condolences and expressed grieve at Lee's passing.

The Star Online's Facebook page, which features the posting of Lee's passing, received over 3,000 "likes" and shared over 1,000 times.

Farid Affandi said Lee was a legend who made his childhood and adult life simply "Marvelous".

"A great story teller that touched millions with his imaginations. We will miss his cameos (in the movies) and his legacy will be the life he saves by his superheroes creation," he added.

KahWai Ng said it was heart breaking to receive news of Lee's passing early in the morning.

"Every time when there is (a) new Marvel movie, we always search for his cameo, whether it is a bus driver, DJ, grumpy neighbour, casino dealer and many more," he said.

"See you soon Stan Lee. You will be missed."

Eng Kian Shen said he would watch the upcoming Avengers 4 movie as a tribute to Lee. It was reported that Lee had filmed his scene for the movie, scheduled for release next year.

He has featured in almost every Marvel-based movie since 2000.

Georjinah Anne admired Lee's life and achievements.

"He had a good long life and managed to see his legacy live on ... what an accomplishment! RIP, Stan," she added.

"The MARVELous legend," Augustine Billy wrote.