Kuala lumpur: The sudden passing of the Istana Budaya Malaysian Traditional Orchestra (OTM) conductor, Mohd Yazid Zakaria, has been described as a significant loss to the institution. Mohd Yazid, who began his tenure at Istana Budaya in 2008 as a musician, had a notable career marked by several achievements, including receiving the National Public Service (Management and Professional) Employee Award during the 2024 Labour Day Celebration.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Yazid was also the recipient of the Excellent Service Award (APC) for the years 2024 and 2016. His contributions extended beyond these accolades, having served as the music director and conductor for the Gala Dinner performance of the 47th ASEAN Summit. Mohd Johari Md Nordin, the deputy director-general (operation) of Istana Budaya, expressed his condolences in a statement, wishing that Mohd Yazid’s soul be blessed and placed among the faithful.

Mohd Yazid passed away at a clinic in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, around 11 am after experiencing muscle cramps and collapsing while awaiting treatment. Despite the clinic’s efforts, including continuous cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while waiting for an ambulance, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. This was confirmed by his fourth son, Ahmad Ariff Azhari Mohd Yazid, 23.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also conveyed his condolences and acknowledged Mohd Yazid’s contributions to elevating the status of traditional music through a post on his Facebook page. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed his sorrow over the OTM director’s passing, describing him as a respected artistic leader and a committed and dedicated figure in the music community.