Sandakan: The remains of Sungai Sibuga assemblyman Datuk Mohamad Hamsan Awang Supain were laid to rest at the Bintang Baru Cemetery, Rancangan Sungai Manila, here at 11.30 a.m. today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad Hamsan, 65, passed away at a private hospital in Kota Kinabalu at 11.20 pm yesterday. His remains were transported to Sandakan and arrived at his residence in Taman Kong Lok here this morning.

The funeral prayers were performed at Pangiran Mosque in Batu 7, led by his son-in-law Mohamad Hanif Ayub, before burial at the cemetery. Among those present were Sabah Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong, Sungai Manila assemblyman Datuk Mokran Ingkat, Gum-Gum assemblyman Arunarnsin Taib, Sekong assemblyman Alias Sani, and appointed assemblyman Datuk Jaffari William.

Mohamad Hamsan, who was Sabah Assistant Minister for Local Government and Housing, had previously been receiving treatment for complications from several illnesses, including kidney-related issues. In the 16th Sabah State Election in 2020, Mohamad Hamsan, representing Barisan Nasional, won the Sungai Sibuga seat in a five-cornered contest with a majority of 1,538 votes.

According to Article 54(1) of the Federal Constitution, a by-election is only required if a vacancy arises within three years before the end of the Parliament or State Assembly term. The 17th Sabah State election must be held by Dec 8, 2025.