KLUANG (Bernama): Former Dewan Negara deputy president Datuk Gapar Gurrohu died of a lung infection at the Enche Besar Hajjah Khalsom Hospital here at about 1.30am Friday (Sept 10). He was 76.

       His youngest son Nor Safarin, 44, said Gapar had been ill for the past two months, besides suffering from diabetes complications.

       He said his late father often spoke about his mother (Nor Safarin’s grandmother) Mah Mohamad who had died 48 years ago while performing the haj.

       "My father also imagined his wife, Datin Aminah @ Safiah Mohd Yusof, 75, as his late mother and often asked us to bring him back to his hometown in Ujung Pasir, Melaka.

       "However, due to the implementation of the movement control order, we were not able to fulfil his request,” he said when contacted Saturday (Sept 11).

       Gapar held the post of Dewan Negara deputy president from May 8, 2001 until Oct 22, 2003.

       He leaves behind his wife, two sons and six grandchildren, and his remains were laid to rest at the Kampung Bentong Dalam Muslim Cemetery here after the Friday prayers.

       "We will definitely remember his sacrifices. Although he was an active politician, he never neglected his responsibilities and will spend time with us whenever he had the chance,” Nor Safarin said.

       Meanwhile, Johor Umno liaison committee treasurer Datuk Md Jais Sarday described Gapar, who was also former Mahkota assemblyman, as a highly respected figure, especially in Kluang.

       "Gapar was the former Kluang Umno division chief from 1996 until 2008. He did a lot of charity works as the chairman of Pertubuhan Anak Yatim Kluang after retiring from politics.

       "This is a huge loss for Umno, especially in this district. I would like to offer my condolences to his family and may his soul be showered with blessings,” he said. - Bernama