On 28 May 2019, Universiti Malaya (UM) is deeply saddened by the passing of the eminent academic figure and national historian, Tan Sri Emeritus Professor Dr. Khoo Kay Kim. He passed away at 10.13 am at the University Malaya Medical Center due to lung infection that led to blood infection.
Amongst the individuals who have contributed and played a major role in the formulation of Rukun Negara, Tan Sri Khoo was a lecturer at the Department of History, Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences at UM. Born in Kampar, Perak, he started his academic career at UM as a Tutor in 1964 and was subsequently appointed as a Professor and chair of Malaysian History from 1974 up to his retirement in March 1992. After that, he remained as a Professor at the department until the last day of his life.
Tan Sri Khoo has greatly contributed to the development of Malaysian history and also in the academic world. He was honoured with the “Emeritus Professor” title by UM in 2001 and named the recipient of the 10th National Academic Figure in 2017 as well as the prestigious Merdeka Award in 2018.
Datuk Ir. (Dr.) Abdul Rahim Hj. Hashim, UM Vice-Chancellor said, “His passing is truly a huge loss not only to the University but also for the Nation. His unparalleled contribution and dedication will forever be remembered by all of us.”
"Universiti Malaya would like to extend our condolences to the late Khoo’s family for the loss," he added.
