In a statement posted on the Istana Negara Facebook page, the royal couple expressed sadness over Osman’s passing and hoped that his family will be patient and remain strong during this time of grief.

“Their Majesties pray that his soul will be blessed by Allah and placed among the righteous,” the statement read.

It added that the King and Queen greatly appreciate and praise Osman’s devotion, service and sacrifice to the state of Johor and the country.

Osman, 70, died at his son’s home in Damansara here last night. He is expected to be buried at the Taman Impian Emas Muslim cemetery, Johor, after Zohor prayers.

On Oct 13, Osman, who was the Kempas assemblyman and Ayer Hitam Bersatu chief, was admitted to the KPJ Johor Specialist Hospital after a mild stroke.

He was Johor’s 16th menteri besar after the 2018 general election, serving from May 12, 2018 until April 8, 2019.