Sarawak celebrity died at the age of 78

KUCHING, 8 Oct: Sarawak President Rumpun Silat (RSS) embraces the Chief Master of Sarawak College of Fine Arts in White Ring, Muhammad Haneef Ali, has died at the age of 78, today.

The Sarawak Police (RSS) reported on its official Facebook page that Allahyarham breathed his last at 12.27 pm.

Born in Miri, Sarawak, Allahyarham began exploring the world of supernatural at the age of nine by studying supernatural science around his hometown.

He then continued to be active in the field until he emerged as one of the key figures in Sarawak and at the national level.

Throughout his involvement, Allahyarham has held various positions including Vice President II of the Federation of Malaysian National Slates (PESAKA) from 1994 to 1996, as well as Chairman of the Bureau of Silat Development and National Warrant/Jury.

He was also the Chief Technical Delegation of Pencak Silat Sports at Sukan Malaysia (SUKMA) VI in Pahang in 1996.

Allahyarham has also served as a Member of the Management Board of Sarawak State Sports Council representing silat sports from 2000 to 2017.

In addition, he was the Secretary General of RSS from 1989 to 2014 before being appointed as President of RSS until this year.

For his services and contributions in the field of surfing, Allahyarham was awarded the Guru Silat by the Chief Minister of Sarawak in 2001 before receiving the Johan Bintang Kenyalang (JBK) medal in 2016.

Allahyarham's departure was described as a great loss to the Persian family, while his knowledge, guidance and piety will continue to be remembered and passed on to future generations.