#SHOWBIZ: Spring guitarist Iskandar passes away in Miri

New Straits Times

24-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Tengku Raden Iskandar Tengku Ismail, better known as Iskandar Spring, the talented guitarist from the popular rock band Spring, sadly passed away at his residence in Miri, Sarawak, at approximately 1am this morning. He was 53.
Ayob Abd Majid, Vice Chairman of Music Malaysia, confirmed the news, stating his association was informed by Iskandar's wife, Nur Hidayah Cecilia.
"I was informed that Iskandar died at 1am this morning in Miri. I immediately informed Ameng Spring's wife, Sabariah, who then contacted Cecilia. His body is currently being prepared at the mosque," Ayob told BH Online.
"He had been suffering from a stroke and kidney failure for a long time."
Attempts by BH Online to reach Cecilia for comment were unsuccessful.
Ayob remembered Iskandar as not just a gifted musician and one of Spring's co-founders, but also a dear friend and "comrade-in-arms."
"We used to work closely when we were at Sony Music, where Spring was under my care at the time. Our relationship wasn't just professional; it was also full of friendship and mutual respect," he shared.
"I've been saddened to follow the progress of his health, where he suffered from a stroke and kidney failure, before he moved to his wife's village in Miri. The last time we were in touch was when I delivered a donation to him. Even during that difficult period, his voice remained calm, patient, and full of gratitude."
Ayob added that Iskandar was never forgotten by his fellow artists.
"We at Konsortium Irama, together with PJ Art Lane, Ameng Spring, and Umarul Iklim, once organised a special charity programme to help ease his burden when he was ill. The programme wasn't just a fundraiser; it was a symbol of love and loyalty within the country's arts scene. His passing is a great loss for the Malaysian music world."
"However, his legacy, rhythm, spirit, and friendship will continue to be remembered. May Allah forgive all his sins, accept his good deeds, and place his soul among the righteous," he said.
Previously, it was reported that Iskandar had been paralysed and was suffering from various chronic illnesses, including diabetes and speech difficulties.
He also required regular dialysis due to kidney complications, which left him unable to work and without a source of income.