Football legend Dzulkefli Ali dies of heart, intestinal complications

Penang football legend Dzulkefli Ali passed away today due to heart and intestinal complications. His daughter, Nor Amylia, revealed that her father, aged 65, had been admitted to Seberang Jaya Hospital multiple times over the past two years for heart issues and developed intestinal complications within the past year. He was sedated around 1am and later died at 12.30pm after three days of treatment.

Nor Amylia mentioned that she encouraged her father to seek medical attention when he complained of a reduced appetite for several days. Initially, he resisted going to the hospital but changed his mind on Wednesday. Although his condition improved initially, doctors later informed her that he required sedation due to a low oxygen level and surgery to remove pus from his abdomen.

Dzulkefli, who had seven children, was interred next to his son, Muhammad Farid Esmith, who died in a road accident six months ago. The football icon's death has left a significant void in his family, as he was a crucial support system for his daughter's business and a frequent visitor to her restaurant in Bagan Ajam. Following his retirement from professional football, Dzulkefli continued to be involved as a coach with Penang-based Kelab Anak Harimau. However, he had to cease coaching after experiencing a stroke in 2022.