Former national laureate Ahmad Khamal Abdullah dies

 

Former national laureate Ahmad Khamal Abdullah, 80, died in his sleep at around 12 noon today.

His son Ainal Adnin Ahmad Khamal confirmed the loss in a statement today.

The deceased's body was taken to Surau as-Sahabah in Section 7, Kota Damansara, in preparation for funeral prayers.

“With humility and sorrow we would like to inform that our father Ahmad Khamal Abdullah breathed his last on Oct 27," said Ainal.

Ahmad Khamal, who is known by the pen name Kemala, was born on Jan 30, 1941.

Ahmad Khamal, the 11th national laureate, who was born in Gombak, Selangor, has a broad background in literary activities.

He started writing since elementary school and produced many books of poetry, anthology of short stories and plays.

He began work as a teacher but in 1968 joined the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka to work as an editor on several of its publications.

In 2000, he received his doctorate in the field of Malay literature from UKM.

In 2011, Ahmad Khamal, who is also a poet, was named the recipient of the 11th National Literary Award, which carries the title of national laureate. - Mkini