KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed his condolences over the death of Malaysian film pioneer Tan Sri L. Krishnan, who died at the age of 104.
In a Facebook post, Anwar described the veteran filmmaker's death as a great loss to the country's arts and culture, particularly the Malay film industry.
He said the late Krishnan, a former student of Bukit Mertajam High School, was among the early figures who helped shape the development of Malay cinema.
As a director, Krishnan produced important works during the 1950s and 1960s with Shaw Brothers, Malay Film Productions, Cathay-Keris and Merdeka Studios, including Bakti, Keris Sempena Riau and Selendang Merah, Anwar said.
The Prime Minister said Krishnan was also remembered for guiding and nurturing the talents of prominent stars including the late legendary artist Tan Sri P. Ramlee, Maria Menado, Mustapha Maarof, M. Amin and Rosnani Jamil.
"More than six decades in film, advertising and music have left a great legacy in the country's arts and culture industry.
"Surely, the late Krishnan's services and contributions to enriching the nation's artistic heritage will continue to be remembered," said Anwar.
The Prime Minister also conveyed his condolences to the late Krishnan's family and prayed that they would be given strength and fortitude in facing the loss.
The 2016 Merdeka Award recipient died in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on Thursday (Sept 24) due to old age. – Bernama
