KUALA LUMPUR, June 11 -- In kitchens where rempah is still pounded by hand and recipes are guarded like family heirlooms, Penang has lost one of its most recognisable custodians.

Renowned Nyonya culinary educator, food ambassador and author Pearly Kee has died at the age of 69 after a battle with cancer, the New Straits Times reported.

Her death was confirmed by her son-in-law, Jivan Ramsamy, who announced the news on Facebook and described the family's grief over her passing.

"It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of my beloved mother-in-law after her courageous battle with cancer," he said.

Kee was widely known as a champion of traditional Nyonya cuisine and a key figure in preserving Penang's Peranakan culinary heritage....