Kuala Lumpur: International hockey suffered a big loss today as the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah who is regarded as the 'Father of Malaysian Hockey', passed away here at the age of 86.

Sultan Azlan Shah was known as the 'Father of Malaysian Hockey' for his colossal contribution to the sport for over 41 years -- both as a player and an administrator. The ruler died at 1.30pm at the National Heart Institute here. His remains will be taken to the palace in Kuala Kangsar tomorrow morning and buried at the royal mausoleum after mid-afternoon prayers.