Ipoh: Datuk Abdul Ghani Ngah, father-in-law of Perikatan Nasional deputy chairman and Dewan Rakyat opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, passed away at 1.45 pm today. The Office of the Opposition Leader confirmed the news, noting that the body is currently at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the 83-year-old had been hospitalized since a house fire on June 19, which resulted in internal complications and respiratory difficulties that required treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. His funeral prayer is scheduled for tonight after the Isyak prayer at Kampung Melayu Sungai Rapat Mosque, followed by burial at the Kampung Rapat Jaya Muslim Cemetery.

In the wake of Abdul Ghani’s passing, Arau MP Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim expressed his condolences to Hamzah and his family, hoping for mercy on Abdul Ghani’s soul, forgiveness of sins, acceptance of good deeds, and his placement among the righteous.

The tragic fire on June 19 also claimed the life of Abdul Ghani’s wife, Datin Salmiah Nyak Matt, 84, who was found unconscious in a downstairs bedroom by rescue personnel. Ipoh police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad reported that the fire involved a two-storey house with six occupants. Fortunately, four individuals, aged between 18 and 49, managed to escape without injury.