Legions of M’sian fans mourn Coco Lee’s death

PETALING JAYA: Like her many fans around the world, Malaysians, too, took to social media to express their shock and sadness or pay tribute to renowned Hong Kong-American singer Coco Lee (pic) who died aged 48 after suffering from depression as revealed by her family.

Heartfelt condolences poured in from across the Malaysian cyberspace to various platforms, including The Star Online, with fans remembering the joy her music had brought them and noting that the star would be tremendously missed.

In a statement on Weibo on Wednesday, Nancy Lee said her younger sister had been suffering from depression for several years.

She added that Coco’s condition had deteriorated rapidly and she attempted to take her own life at her home last Sunday but died at the hospital three days later.

On Twitter, a user with the handle @ajithkanth009 prayed that the idol could finally find peace now.

“You have fought enough, now rest well in heaven,” the user tweeted.

On Facebook, a shocked Muhammed Shamol commented: So sad! Her life was too short. Rest in peace.”

Megan Meg said she never expected that things would come to this for Coco.

“Never expected someone who appeared to be so strong, exuded vibrancy and positivity, so jovial, to resort to this. Shocking and very sad. May you find peace,” she wrote.

Another user pointed out that Coco’s death was a prime example that depression could strike anyone.

“No matter how rich or poor, beautiful or average ... when we are not happy or choked up with problems, depression is the silent killer. RIP.”

There were fans who reminisced about the memories they had of Coco and how they connected with her music despite never meeting the singer.

One of them was Leo Issac. “She was so beautiful and talented. This is so sad. I grew up listening to her songs.”

On Instagram, hundreds of users, including Cynthia Vanisha Paul, were heartbroken by the news of Coco’s demise.

“She was so talented. Hurts me to see such beautiful souls pass on like this,” she posted.

Eugene Pook wrote: “A heavy loss for us. Depression is a silent killer ... Coco Lee, you will be missed and remembered.”

Kamariah Kamarudin posted her condolences to the late singer’s family, relatives and friends.

Those suffering from problems can reach out to: Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999 or WhatsApp [phone]); Jakim’s Family, Social and Community care centre (WhatsApp [phone]); and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929) or www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers and operating hours.