Zaibo, the popular star of Under One Roof, has died.
Malaysian media reported that he died at around 1.30pm on Wednesday (14 Nov). His wife confirmed the news.
The 62-year-old actor was battling Stage 4 esophageal cancer.
His death comes less than 2 months after news of his cancer diagnosis first broke.
The news will come as a shock to former co-stars like Vernetta Lopez, who had rallied behind the star when she heard the news.
She told The Straits Times,
I was shocked. When we filmed the show, Zaibo had always been a sweetheart, buying snacks and gifts for everybody whenever he came back from Malaysia.
The illness had not changed the star much, she added.
When I video-called him, he was still the same bright, positive Zaibo, and I really hope he beats the illness big time
Lopez and other stars had raised about $1,800 among themselves to help Zaibo with his medical expenses.
They had also planned to raise funds through a crowdfunding platform, according to STOMP.
Zaibo appeared well on Monday, when he received the Johor Princess to his Batu Pahat home.
A fan of his work, Princess Aminah paid him a visit to encourage him as he battled cancer.
He appeared to be in good spirits, laughing and cracking jokes.
But in an interview with The Straits Times, he revealed that the initial days of his illness were far from easy.
As the simple-minded Bishan mee rebus seller on Under One Roof, Zaibo’s character Yusoff was well-loved for his down-to-earth personality.
He was often accompanied by his overbearing wife, Rosnah, played by Norleena Salim.
The couple represented the everyday Malay family in the neighbourhood and were an endearing part of the series.
MS News extends its deepest condolences to Zaibo’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Featured image from STOMP.
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