Malaysian sports fans will be mourning the loss of the legendary sports commentator Datuk Hasbullah Haji Awang, who has unfortunately passed away.
No details have been released regarding his death, though it has been confirmed that the veteran commentator breathed his last breath before passing away at the National Heart Institute at 12.20 pm earlier today.
Datuk Hasbullah is regarded by many as the greatest commentator Malaysia has ever seen, and plied his trade with RTM as well as with Astro Arena more recently.
He first rose to prominence during the semi-pro years of the M-League before growing into an icon that was often associated with coverage of a myriad of sports. After spending years with RTM 1, he moved to Astro Arena in January 2012, where he continued to provide unparalleled voice coverage of local sports.
Here are some exclusive tributes from his colleagues and fellow journalists/reporters/commentators
DEZ CORKHILL (ASTRO ARENA): Hasbullah was an institution in Malaysian broadcasting long before I came to the country. But the first time I came across him was when both RTM and Arena were covering a game between Pahang and ATM in Temerloh. Hasbullah made a point to come over to me and say hello. It was a great gesture. Later, when working as a colleague with Datuk, there truly was never a time when he was angry, or down, or anything other than excellent company. It was a real privilege to know and work with Datuk Hasbullah over the last three years. He will be really missed. A broadcast legend, and a truly lovely man. Prayers to his family.
STANLEY SAMUEL (ASTRO ARENA): He was an outstanding man with an outstanding talent and ability. This is a massive loss for Malaysia.
EDLEEN ISMAIL (ASTRO ARENA): I knew of Datuk Hasbullah ever since I was a kid. I grew up listening to him commentate but I got to know him a year ago when he joined Astro Arena. He was a kind and humble man. I still remember when I first met him, I was shy like a fan-girl, but his kind demeanor made me comfortable. I will always remember the first time we did a live cross over with him and I was so nervous and worried that I would fumble. But he would always joke around with me and put me at ease. Still can’t believe he’s gone. I’m truly saddened but I know God loves him more and he is in a better place right now.
HARESH DEOL (MALAY MAIL): He was a fine commentator, gentleman and an avid sportsman. Never too big to spend a few minutes with fellow sports journos. His voice, which we have heard for decades, will continue to linger. There will never be another Hasbullah Awang. RIP sir.
Here’s a clip featuring one of Datuk Hasbullah’s greatest commentary ever.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oaftcQOq70
Other posts by FO Newsdesk
