A factory general worker died when the fire cracker he lighted exploded and severely injured his face at a house in Jalan Permas, Permas Jaya, here, Friday morning.

Sze Joon Choon, 36, who was rushed to the Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA) by family members following the incident at midnight, died at 7.30am.

Johor Baharu Selatan OCPD, ACP Sulaiman Salleh said the victim was ushering in the Chinese New Year with his family when the tragedy occurred.

"The victim was rushed to hospital by family members for treatment but was confirmed dead this morning," he said.

He advised the people against lighting fire crackers as this was an offence.