Former assistant governor of Bank Negara Latifah Merican Cheong, 67, died of esophageal cancer last night. 

According to Bernama, Latifah passed away at Subang Jaya Medical Center at about 10.15pm, surrounded by family members. She had been admitted earlier in the week after complaining of fatigue and pain.

Latifah, who hailed from Air Itam, became the assistant governor of Bank Negara in 1998.

She held leadership positions in the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Securities Commission, and served as President of the Malaysian Economic Association at the time of her passing. 

She was also a founding member of G25. 

A statement from Latifah's family said that "she lived a life of utmost integrity, generosity, tenacious hard work and with great efficiency and purpose.

"She was the pillar of leadership that held her families together, and touched many hearts through her brilliance and kindness."

"She was a loving wife and fabulous mother to her husband and three children she's left behind. She was also
blessed with four lovely grandchildren," the statement read.

Latifah's family has asked for privacy at this difficult time.