KUALA LUMPUR — Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed his regret at not being able to involve renowned composer Roslan Arifin Jamil — better known as Ross Arifin — in the production of this year’s National Day song.
Ross, 63, passed away at 5.30pm yesterday.
Fahmi said he had conveyed his wish to collaborate with the late composer during a visit to the Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) studio, where Ross had shown remarkable enthusiasm to return to music despite suffering multiple strokes.
Accompanied by RTM director-general Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman and RTM music director Datuk Mokhzani Ismail, Fahmi recalled that Ross had been visibly excited to be among a variety of musical instruments.
“At the time, he had already played a few melodic phrases. We will try to recover the piece and make every effort to complete it.
“I still remember his words, which have stayed with me — that the song he was preparing for National Day would have served as a form of recognition,” he said, according to Bernama.
Fahmi spoke to reporters after paying his respects at Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin Hospital today.
Ross was laid to rest at the Sungai Kantan Muslim Cemetery following noon prayers.
News of his passing was shared by Fahmi via Facebook last night.
Throughout his career, Ross composed for many of Malaysia’s top singers, including Datuk Aishah (Kemaafan Dendam Yang Terindah), Fauziah Latiff (Dia), Ning Baizura (Kau dan Aku), and Jaclyn Victor (Ceritera Cinta). — August 3, 2025