Jakarta – Prominent Muslim preacher Zainuddin Muhammad Zein (Zainuddin MZ) passed away on Tuesday morning at the Pertamina Hospital in South Jakarta. Zainuddin was 60 years of age.

RCTI television reported that the preacher, affectionately known as dai sejuta umat (the preacher to 1 million followers), was taken to the hospital's emergency room at 9:20 a.m. in critical condition. His remains were later taken to his residence in Gandaria, South Jakarta.

Born on March 2, 1951, Zainuddin entered into politics after joining the United Development Party (PPP). In 2003, Zainuddin resigned from the party as a result of an internal conflict, and founded the Star Reform Party (PBR), which later split into two factions.

Zainuddin eventually rejoined the PPP, only to jump ship again to join Gerindra in the 2009 election.

Last year, Zainuddin made headlines amid allegations of sexual assault on dangdut singer Aida Saskia. He flatly denied the allegations. Zainuddin is survived by his wife and four children.