Phnom Penh: Cambodia has now lost another legacy of Khmer ancient arts. Days after the death of Royal Ballet icon, Em Theay, veteran Ayai, known to the Cambodian public as Ta Salat, died this morning of lung disease and high blood pressure. He was 80 years old.

According to a close family friend, Venerable So Sieng, Ta Salad, whose real name was Mak Kanen, passed away at 9:30 am on Friday. The monk added that Ta Salad had been sent to hospital for treatment, but due to the seriousness of his condition, he had to be given oxygen but died this morning. His body is being kept in Khan Sen Sok for a traditional cremation ceremony.

Ta Salad dedicated his life to Ayay, using his comedic talents to bring smiles to the faces of Cambodians, young and old. He will be sadly missed.