KOTA KINABALU: The remains of popular host Datuk Mahadzir Lokman has been flown back to Kuala Lumpur at 9.25pm tonight.
It is understood that the burial will be held tomorrow at Bukit Kiara Muslim Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur.
Mahadzir’s remains were brought to the state mosque at Sembulan here to be washed and prepared, before the flight which took off from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Younger sister Ida Lokman, who flew in from the capital to arrange for his remains to be brought home, thanked all involved, including Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal as well as the police, doctors and friends for their assistance,
Mahadzir, 61, a renowned master of ceremonies and former TV3 host, was found unconscious at a hotel room this morning before he was pronounced dead.
It is understood that he had arrived here on Tuesday for a work event and managed to go out for dinner with friends last night.
Police ruled out foul play and classified the case as a sudden death report, where his passing is believed to be due to past health problems.
Meanwhile, Mahadzir’s friends, when met at the hospital earlier, have nothing but kind words for him.
“He has always treated Sabah as his second home, he always come here to visit,” said old friend Audra Webber.
Another friend said initially, they thought it was another hoax as rumours (of his death) were circulated in the past.
Meanwhile, fellow emcee Ben Uzair took to his Instagram account to pay tribute to Mahadzir.
“Dato’ Dale was an extraordinary Malaysian; there is no one like him. As a boy, I was immensely inspired by his ability to lead/host any events through his immaculate command in English, Bahasa Kebangsaan, and French. These three languages I try to master to my best ability.
“I will not be the radio announcer and Master of Ceremonies I am today without his guidance, wisdom and tunjuk-ajar.
“Those lessons and memories will be etched in my mind and heart for eternity,” said Ben.
Ben added that he find solace that Mahadzir passed away in Sabah, a place he grew up as a boy, when Mahadzir’s late father was the education director.