KUALA LUMPUR, November 24 - The passing of the country's veteran composer, Tan Sri Dr Ahmad Nawab is likened to a loss of a priceless gem.

Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil said this in his Facebook post, when writing about the departure of the seventh National Artist who clearly left an impact, not only among industry players but also fans and listeners of local music.

Fahmi described the deceased's contribution in the field of art as innumerable.

Since the 1950s, Tan Sri Dr Ahmad Nawab has composed more than 2,000 songs, produced more than 200 albums and produced many big names in the world of musical entertainment.

The deceased also served with the RTM (Radio Television Malaysia) Orchestra for 17 years and was awarded the title of the seventh National Artist in 2006.

In the same post, Fahmi said, on behalf of the staff in the Ministry of Communications, he extended his condolences to the deceased’s family and friends, especially those in the music industry.