Indonesian pop singer Eddy Silitonga dies

Indonesian pop singer Eddy Silitonga, who was also popular in Malaysia during the 70s and 80s, died early today after being admitted to the Fatmawati Hospital here for two weeks due to chronic diabetes.

He was 65 years old.

Eddy's son, Marco announced the death of his father over social media before it was broadcasted by the media online as well as on local television networks.

"My father, Eddy Silitonga died at 12.05am today at the Fatmawati Hospital, in south Jakarta," said Marco in his post.

Among Eddy's songs popularised by Malaysian artistes was "Syurga Dibawah Telapak Kaki Ibu" (Heaven is Under a Mother's Feet), sang by Aishah.

Eddy, who hailed from Permatang Siantar, North Sumatra, was popular in Malaysia, and his songs which were often played over the radio were 'Bunga Tanjong', 'Lancang Kuning', 'Bunga Pujaan', and 'Jatuh Cinta'.

He was rushed to Fatmawati Hospital in southern Jakarta two weeks ago after complaining of shortness of breath, and the hospital confirmed that his death was due to complications arising from diabetes and a heart problem.