KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran entertainment and fashion journalist and socialite Datuk Kee Hua Chee died yesterday in his hometown Kuala Krai, Kelantan, after a long illness.
Kee's close friend, event organiser Mi-Ki Choong confirmed his death on Facebook today.
"It is with a heavy heart that I have been tasked to make a formal announcement of the passing of a dear friend, Datuk Kee Hua Chee. He left us at 11.45am yesterday in Kuala Krai, Kelantan.
"His extended family will be cremating him today, and his ashes will be placed along with his father's ashes in Kelantan, where he was born and raised."
Another close friend, event organiser Datuk Nancy Yeoh, confirmed his death on her Facebook page.
"With great sadness, we inform you that our much-loved Datuk Kee Hua Chee has returned to be with his Lord. He passed away from diabetes pneumonia in Kelantan."
Miss Malaysia Kebaya founder Jason Hee said on his Facebook page that the annual beauty pageant had lost a dear friend whom it had known for more than a decade.
"We all will miss you Datuk. Thank you for your support in modelling, beauty pageants and award events."
Fashion designer Gillian Hung said on her Facebook page that she had lost a great friend and supporter.
"Rest in peace Datuk Kee Hua Chee. Words can't describe it. You are the most colourful person I have ever known, and we all will miss you."
Kee, a journalist for over three decades, was well-known for his friendships with prominent Malaysians, including royalties, leaders, businesspeople, entertainers, models and fashion designers.
He was a regular in many society magazines and excelled in celebrity interviews.
He also helped organise and promote fashion shows, award shows and beauty pageants.