Former AirAsia Berhad chairman Datuk Pahamin Rajab, 77, died of a heart attack while on a flight to London, United Kingdom (UK), last night. - NSTP file pic
Former AirAsia Berhad chairman Datuk Pahamin Rajab, 77, died of a heart attack while on a flight to London, United Kingdom (UK), last night. - NSTP file pic

KUALA LUMPUR: Former AirAsia Berhad chairman Datuk Pahamin Rajab, 77, died of a heart attack while on a flight to London, United Kingdom (UK), last night.

The news was shared by his son-in-law, actor Azhar Sulaiman via Instagram (IG), early this morning

Azhar said the late Pahamin, who is also a former Road Transport Department director-general was on his way to attend his grandson's graduation ceremony in London.

"I am saddened to inform you that my father-in-law, Datuk Pahamin Rajab has just passed away.

"He just arrived in London and had a heart attack on the flight. Now my mother-in-law and son, Rees are in London," he said in the uploaded video.

Azhar said that he and other family members will leave for London tomorrow.

The late Pahamin, who was also the co-founder of AirAsia Bhd, served in several ministries and government agencies in Malaysia over the span of 30-years.

He once held the position of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry secretary-general from 1998 to 2001 and was appointed as Road Transport Department director-general from 1974 to 1998.

He also held important positions in several companies including LNG Resources Bhd, Forlife Research Sdn Bhd and Mediscreen Sdn Bhd.