KUALA LUMPUR: The frontman of the 1990s rock outfit Versi, Che Saimi Che Wok, better known as Awang, passed away at his home in Taman Sri Segambut today. He was 59.
His wife, Yusnani Kiman, confirmed the news, sharing that he died at 11.45am.
She said Awang had mentioned feeling feverish and was breathing shallowly that morning.
When she suggested going to the hospital, he declined, worried that he might be admitted and catch the flu. Shortly after, he vomited slightly and lost consciousness.
Yusnani noted that her husband had been battling a persistent cough for over a month, which initially coincided with the haze season.
His condition worsened over the preceding two to three days, accompanied by phlegm.
She also revealed that he had a history of heart complications, including a heart attack last year that required him to strictly monitor his fluid intake to prevent breathlessness.
Reflecting on his final days, Yusnani said Awang had largely stepped away from the music scene, with his last stage performance taking place in Ayer Keroh, Melaka, on Sept 26.
Instead, he dedicated much of his time to serving as a bilal at the Al-Qurtubi Mosque in Taman Sri Segambut. Even yesterday, he managed to call the Maghrib and Isyak prayers.
Awang leaves behind his wife, two children, and two grandchildren. His remains are scheduled to be laid to rest at the Jalan Segambut Islamic Cemetery following the Asar prayers today.
Formed in the 1990s, Versi carved a niche in the local rock scene with their signature ballads and slow-rock anthems, capturing the hearts of rock kapak fans nationwide.
Aside from their biggest hit, Bila Kekasih Mula Merajuk—composed by LY with lyrics by Baiduri—the band also gained fame for tracks such as Buktikan Cintamu Padaku and Ini Cintaku Yang Pertama.