GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia's iconic consumer advocate S.M. Mohamed Idris has died of heart failure. He was 93.

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) president passed away peacefully at 4.45pm at the Gleneagles Penang here after being warded for heart complications on Friday (May 17).

Malaysia has lost count of the many deeds which CAP had done under Mohamed Idris' leadership that led to the betterment of life in the country.

As a founding member of CAP since 50 years ago, he was part of the pressure group that successfully lobbied for the creation of the Department of Environment in 1975.

Mohamed Idris' efforts over five decades led to the banning of toxic drugs, the requirement that expiry dates be printed on all food products, stopping cigarette advertisements, increasing workers' benefits under the Social Security Organisation and Employees Provident Fund as well as better legal standing for tenants and house buyers.

Star Media Group adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, who has known Mohamed Idris for over three decades, described the latter as a “legend and institution.”  

“He was the country’s pioneer consumer advocate and also an environmentalist.  

“He was committed to the cause and he never wavered from his belief in protecting the rights of Malaysian consumers.”  

Wong said CAP was well-run and had great links with schools.  

“CAP isn’t a one-man show, unlike some NGOs. It’s a professionally organised movement,” he added.

CAP vice-president and Mohamed Idris' brother, Mohideen Abdul Kadir, said his brother’s remains would be brought back to his home at No 2, Rose Avenue until the funeral at 10am on Saturday (May 18).  

Mohamed Idris will be buried at the Masjid Hashim Yahya cemetery in Jalan Perak.