Dato’ Bentara Setia Haji Nik Abdul Aziz bin Nik Mat (Jan 10, 1931 - Feb 12, 2015) was a Malaysian politician and Muslim cleric. He was the chief minister (menteri besar) of the state of Kelantan from 1990 to 2013 and the mursyidul am or spiritual leader of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) from 1991 until his death in 2015.

Nik Aziz retired as chief minister of Kelantan after the 2013 general election. PAS was re-elected as the Kelantan state government and Nik Aziz’s deputy, Ahmad Yaakob, took his place. Over the ensuing two years, Nik Aziz became increasingly ill with prostate cancer, and died on Feb 12, 2015 at his residence in Pulau Melaka, Kota Baru.

His death triggered a profound sadness to the members of PAS and all Malaysians who love peace. He was a people-oriented leader and was lauded for the way he treated people regardless of race and religion.

Nik Aziz commanded support from a large number of non-Muslims in Malaysia and played a leading role during PAS’ increase in popularity among non-Muslims.

He was a leader who was honest, trustworthy and hard to replace. His death is a tremendous loss for PAS members and Malaysians in general.

Sarawak PAS would like to express condolences on his death, may Allah forgive him and place his soul among those of the righteous people.

JOFRI JARAIEE is Sarawak PAS deputy commissioner iii-cum-Miri PAS chief.