Singapore fans mourn passing of pop legend Michael Jackson
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 26 June 2009 2019 hrs

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SINGAPORE: In Singapore, the passing of Michael Jackson was met with shock and disbelief.

Michael Jackson last visited Singapore in 1996 where hordes of fans crowded outside the Raffles Hotel for a glimpse of their idol.

And when he finally appeared at the window, it was a brief but telling moment about the elusive superstar.

Michael Jackson was an undisputed musical icon for many despite being known as "Wacko Jacko" for his often bizarre behaviour.

News of his sudden death from cardiac arrest was met with disbelief.

Online, tribute pages quickly sprung up on social networking sites.

For many, it was a day they would not soon forget.

Record shops reported an increase in Michael Jackson memorabilia sales and on auction website eBay, some were quick to cash in on demand.

Michael Jackson last performed in Singapore in August 1993. It was a sell-out concert at the National Stadium that showed the crowd of thousands just why he was the King of Pop.

For many here, it would have been a real dream to see Michael Jackson grace the stage once more. - CNA/vm