PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat has asked for forgiveness from all for any mistakes committed during his tenure as the Kelantan Menteri Besar for 23 years.

“Forgive me for all my mistakes while leading Kelantan. My illness is perhaps Allah’s way to cleanse whatever sins I might have made,” said a tearful Nik Aziz during dawn prayers on Saturday at the Pulau Melaka mosque, near his house.

Nik Aziz who was the Kelantan MB since 1990 did not extend his tenure after the 13th general election, although he retained his Chempaka state seat.

He was replaced his deputy, Datuk Ahmad Yakub and ever since letting go of his position, Nik Aziz is reportedly to be often at the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian.

On Friday, Nik Aziz was scheduled to attend Himpunan Reformasi 2.0 at Kota Bharu along with Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim but he could not go as he was unwell.

In 2008, GERAK, an anti-corruption organisation, recognised Nik Aziz as a Menter Besar with the cleanest record in the country.

The award was to recognise his efforts in fighting corruption throughout his tenure as the MB.

In 2009, he was listed in the top 50 of the book "The 500 Most Influential Muslims".