Agong, Raja Permaisuri offer condolences to Ikim chairman's family

KUALA LUMPUR - Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah conveyed their condolences to the family of Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (Ikim) chairman Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Mohd Kamal Hassan who died today.

"Mohd Kamal’s eminent personality was recognised internationally and he was a well-respected academician.

"Their Majesties greatly appreciate his service and contributions, and described his passing as a great loss to the country," according to a post on Istana Negara Facebook today.

Their Majesties also expressed their sadness over Mohd Kamal’s death and hoped that his family would be patient and persevere in facing challenges in this sad and bitter situation.

The King and Queen also prayed that his soul will be blessed by Allah S.W.T and placed among the righteous.

Mohd Kamal died at 2.27 am today at the age of 80 due to complications related to a recent surgical procedure.

His remains will be buried at the Bandar Baru Bangi Muslim Cemetery.

Born on Oct 26, 1942, in Pasir Mas, Kelantan, Mohd Kamal, obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Islamic Studies from the University of Malaya in 1965 before continuing his studies at the master's and doctorate level at Columbia University, New York in 1975.

He was a Rector of the International Islamic University of Malaysia from 1999 until 2006, and was also chairman of the Advisory Board for the Coordination of Islamic Religious Education and Education (LEPAI), which was established with the consent of the Conference of Rulers. - BERNAMA