JOHOR BARU, Dec 22 — Former Johor mentri besar Datuk Osman Sapian died at 11.45pm yesterday. He was 69.

He was three days away from his 70th birthday on December 24.

His brother Datuk Aziz Sapian confirmed the news when contacted by reporters. 

Aziz said the burial is being arranged by family members from Kuala Lumpur.

It is learnt that Osman’s remains will be brought back from Kuala Lumpur to his family home in Johor Baru today.

Osman was the incumbent Kempas assemblyman. 

The Johor Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) leader was reported to be recovering from a stroke after undergoing surgery in October. 

He was said to be in stable condition, but needed close observation.

Osman, who was a colourful and at times controversial politician, was appointed Johor’s 16th mentri besar after the historic May 12, 2018 general election.

Osman held office for 11 months, which is the shortest period for a mentri besar in the state’s history.

He resigned in April 2019.