KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian activist Anne Ooi, well-known as "Aunty Bersih", passed away today at the age of 78.
The sad news was shared by the official Bersih Facebook account, expressing condolences to her family members.
"The iconic image of Aunty Bersih, dressed in a bright yellow T-shirt and holding white chrysanthemums, drenched with chemical-laced water outside the Tung Shin Hospital, became the defining image of the Bersih 2 rally.
"She represented thousands, if not millions, of ordinary Malaysian citizens who care enough about our nation to speak up and take action when things are not right.
"A former English teacher, she marched for Malaysian democracy on July 9, 2011, and encountered tear gas and water cannons," it said.
Over time, Aunty Bersih became a recognisable presence at the majority of significant rallies.
To numerous individuals, Aunty Bersih was regarded as an idol, yet she perceived herself as just an average citizen in fulfilling her part in the broader endeavour for a more promising nation.
