KUCHING: The state government has declared a two-day mourning period following the demise of former Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud early today.

It said that flags would be flown at half-mast throughout Sarawak, and any entertainment events would be postponed.

"Mosques and places of worship are encouraged to hold prayer sessions," it said in a statement.

Abdul Taib's remains are expected to arrive from Kuala Lumpur this evening and will be taken to his residence in Demak Jaya, Jalan Bako, here.

"The remains will be brought to the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) tomorrow, where the public can pay their final respects from 8 am to 11.30 am," it said.

His remains will be brought to the Demak Mosque near his residence for funeral prayers and the state funeral will be held at a family cemetery in Demak Jaya.

Abdul Taib, 87, died at a hospital in Kuala Lumpur at 4.40 am.

-- BERNAMA