BULETIN Mutiara bids farewell to a brilliant artist and storyteller, Mohd Azmi Mohd Hussin, whose pen left an indelible mark on our hearts and pages.
For nine years, he brought wit, wisdom, and warmth to Buletin Mutiara, illustrating the world as only he could – through lines that spoke louder than words.
Though he departed from Buletin Mutiara’s newsroom in October last year (2024), his presence never truly faded. His cartoons, filled with humour, sharp observations, and profound storytelling, continued to resonate with those who had the privilege of experiencing them.
Azmi, as he was fondly known, had a rare gift – turning everyday moments into thought-provoking art, shedding light on truths that words sometimes failed to express. With over a decade in the art industry, he was not only a cartoonist but also a talented caricature artist and muralist.
Over the years, Azmi’s dedication to his craft earned him three Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) achievements: The Most Number of Live Caricatures in 24 Hours (2017), The Longest Coffee Painting in Malaysia (2019), and The Longest Single Comic Strip Produced in Malaysia (2021). His first two records also made their way into the Asia Book of Records, a testament to his exceptional talent and perseverance.
Beyond his art, Azmi was a kind and passionate soul, always generous with ideas, encouragement, and laughter.
State communications director Yap Lee Ying paid tribute to Azmi, describing him as a gifted artist whose work brought depth, humour, and truth to Buletin Mutiara’s pages for nine remarkable years.
“Azmi had an extraordinary ability to capture the world in just a few strokes of his pen. His cartoons were not just illustrations – they were reflections of our times, crafted with wit, insight, and an unmistakable voice.
“He could make us laugh, make us think, and sometimes, make us pause to see the world a little differently. Even after he left the newsroom, his impact remained.
“The passion he poured into every piece will never be forgotten. Azmi was a friend to many – a kind, thoughtful, and generous spirit who left an imprint not just on paper, but on all of us who had the privilege of knowing him,” Yap said.
Buletin Mutiara journalist Ainul Wardah Sohilli is still grappling with the loss of her dear friend. She recalled their first meeting – an interview that left a lasting impression.
“Azmi was not just an artist but a storyteller with a deep passion for his craft. Outside of cartooning, he found joy in BMX cycling, a hobby he shared enthusiastically with those around him.
“I remember how generous he was in sharing his life’s journey, even with people he had just met.
“Sehingga sekarang, masih lagi tersimpan potret karikatur yang arwah lukis masa kali pertama interview dia,” Ainul reminisced, cherishing the personal memento Azmi had created.
His artistic journey reached a significant milestone in August last year (2024) with his first solo exhibition, Cari, at Hin Bus Depot. It was one of the last times Ainul met him in person. Before that, they had spoken about his dreams – one of which was to bring his comic character Joe-G to the world stage, much like the legendary Datuk Lat (Mohammad Nor Mohammad Khalid).
A longtime admirer of his art, Cheong Yin Fan, shared how Azmi’s work had a unique ability to draw people in.
“Azmi’s art is simple, yet there’s something about it that pulls you in – it makes you feel like you’re part of the artwork.
“When I visited Hin Bus Depot last August (2024), I didn’t even realise at first that the piece was his. But after taking an interactive photo with it, I suddenly felt – wow, no wonder! It was Azmi’s work. So powerful that it made me want to be part of the art itself.
“You see the TV in his piece? It has such a Malaysian feel – ‘Esok Cuti’ – and you just can’t help but laugh when you see it.
“That’s why I love his work. And the art community loved him just as much.
“He was humble, approachable, and always willing to help. Even with his fame, he was never arrogant. He remained kind and down-to-earth, and that was what made him so special,” she said.
Penang Global Tourism senior manager Pauline Yoon was still in shock and disbelief that Azmi’s no longer around.
“There are too many memorable stories with Azmi over the past 10 years. He was such a talented, humble, and humourous guy. I remember when we were in Jakarta for an event – he was wearing a hoodie while walking down the street. I asked, ‘Tak panas kah?’ and he just laughed and said, ‘Panas, tapi gaya ma.’
“I was about to call him for an event in April, but the next day, I received the heartbreaking news. I am really going to miss ‘stalking’ him at Hin Bus Depot and the tuition centre near my house where he used to send his kid,” she said.
Azmi’s close friend, Preveena Balakrishnan, remembered him as a man of unshakable determination.
“For those who knew him, Azmi was more than just an artist – he was a fighter, a dreamer, and an inspiration.
“He was a man of persistence and hard work. He wanted to show the world that you can make a living through art.
“Despite facing countless rejections and struggles, he never spoke ill of anyone.
“To me, Azmi was more than a best friend. He was a guide, a brother, a critic, and a constant source of motivation.
“He had a playful and cheerful spirit and always went the extra mile to make others happy,” she said.
Preveena also recalled his love for briyani and his admiration for Tamil superstar ‘Thala’ Ajith Kumar.
“He was a huge fan – always trying to catch Ajith’s movies on the first day, first show!” she shared.
According to The Star, Azmi, 40, was on his way back from a Ramadan bazaar in Paya Terubong with his family when he began experiencing chest pains on March 5. His wife drove him to a nearby clinic in Bandar Baru Air Itam, where he collapsed.
Emergency aid was administered, and an ambulance was called. Despite CPR efforts at the clinic and on the way to Penang Hospital, Azmi took his last breath en route.
He leaves behind his wife and three children – two sons aged 17 and 15, and an 11-year-old daughter.
Azmi has been laid to rest at the Masjid Jamek Hashim Yahaya Muslim Cemetery in Jalan Perak.
The world is a little less colourful without Azmi, but his legacy lives on in the ink he left behind. His art, his kindness, and his unwavering spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace, Azmi. Your pen may be still, but your stories will never fade.
Story by Christopher Tan