Malcolm Young has passed away.

The founding member of rock band AC/DC tragically passed away on Saturday (18.11.17) at the age of 64, following a three-year battle with dementia.

AC/DC – which was also co-founded by Malcolm’s younger brother Angus – confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post uploaded to the site shortly after Malcolm’s passing, in which they did not disclose the star’s cause of death.

The post read: “Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young.

“Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC.

“With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band.

“As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man.

“He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted.

“He took great pride in all that he endeavored.

“His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed. (sic)”

The end of the statement also included words from 62-year-old Angus, who praised the “unique and very special” bond he had shared with his older sibling.

He wrote: “As his brother it is hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special.

“He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever.

“Malcolm, job well done.”

The ‘Highway To Hell’ rockers posted a second time on Facebook in the same hour, where they stated the iconic musician had been surrounded by his loved ones at the time of his passing.

They wrote: “It is with deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of Malcolm Young, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother. Malcolm had been suffering from dementia for several years and passed away peacefully with his family by his bedside.

“Renowned for his musical prowess Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many. From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans.

“Malcolm is survived by his loving wife O’Linda, children Cara and Ross, son-in-law Josh, three grandchildren, sister and brother.”

Malcolm’s family have asked for “privacy” at this very sad time, and have requested that fans who wish to pay their respects should do so by donating to the Salvation Army charity.

The Facebook post continued: “While thanking all for their overwhelming support and heartfelt condolences, the family ask that you respect their privacy during this time of heartbreak and grief.

“For those wishing to send messages to the family please visit the Sydney Morning Herald Malcolm Young Memorial website which will be available next week.

“The family have asked instead of flowers to send donations to The Salvation Army.”