Pyongyang, December 23 (KCNA) -- Memorial services took place in Benin and Malaysia on Wednesday and Thursday on the demise of leader Kim Jong Il.

Present there were members of organizations for friendship and solidarity with the Korean people, personages of all social standings and masses of relevant countries.

Speeches were made at the memorial services.

Hessou Kohovi, chairman of the Benin-Korea Amicable Association "Long Live Kim Jong Il, Supreme Leader", said:

The demise of Kim Jong Il is the greatest loss to the Korean people and the biggest sorrow for progressive mankind. It is unbelievable that he passed away all of a sudden.

Although his heart stopped beating, the undying feats he performed for the Korean people and progressive mankind will shine long.

His august name and tender-hearted image will always be remembered by mankind.

The rector of the Cotonou Institute of Journalism of Benin said that Kim Jong Il will be immortal thanks to Kim Jong Un, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea.

The chairman of the Malaysian preparatory committee for commemorating the centenary of birth of President Kim Il Sung referred to the brief history of Kim Jong Il's revolutionary activities and undying feats.

He expressed conviction that the Korean people would overcome sorrow and display strength and courage, rallied close around Kim Jong Un, and certainly build a thriving nation, the desire of Kim Jong Il.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian preparatory committee set the period from Dec. 22 to 24 as a mourning period and decided to pay tribute to Kim Jong Il for one minute every day before starting work during the period.