Gerik MP dies of heart attack

 

Gerik MP Hasbullah Osman has passed away at age 63.

Government news wire Bernama reported that the Umno lawmaker died of a heart attack in Raub, Pahang this evening.

Perak Umno chief Saarani Mohamad also confirmed the news.

Hasbullah's aide informed Malaysiakini that he had suffered a heart attack while in his vehicle waiting for a cardiac appointment at a clinic in Raub.

He was later taken to Hospital Raub in an ambulance. 

Just last week, he was chosen as one of the Perikatan Nasional government’s representatives on the Public Accounts Committee.

Back in May, he was appointed chairperson of government-linked company Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB).

Hasbullah first won the Gerik seat in GE13 and defended it in GE14 in a three-cornered fight against PAS and Bersatu.

Back in 2009, he had served as the political secretary to Muhyiddin Yassin, when Muhyiddin was deputy prime minister under the BN administration.

In a statement tonight, the prime minister credited Hasbullah for shaping his political career.

“As my political secretary he played a big part in shaping my political path, I value his contributions to this very day.

“We shared many memories together. His passing is a big loss for me,” Muhyiddin said.

Also offering his condolences was MCA president Wee Ka Siong.

"He is a leader with vast experience in serving the people.

"He was formerly a board member at investment company TH Properties Sdn Bhd (a subsidiary of Tabung Haji), Ladang Lekir (a subsidiary of the Perak Agriculture Body), the Companies Commission and a board member at FGV Downstream (a subsidiary of Felda Golden Ventures).

"Hasbullah's passing is a big loss to the people and country. His contributions and sacrifices will be remembered forever," he said in a Facebook post. - Mkini