Penang Deputy Chief Minister I Ahmad Zakiyuddin Abdul Rahman has successfully undergone an open-heart surgery this afternoon.

His aide Muhasdey Mohamad said Zakiyuddin is still being "closely monitored" by the specialist doctor at the Penang General Hospital.

"Zakiyuddin's family thanks everyone who has prayed for his safety and recovery.

"He needs at least two weeks rest without being disturbed," he told Malaysiakini when contacted.

Muhasdey said his boss' son Muhammad Amin relayed the good news to him.

On July 5, Zakiyuddin was rushed to the intensive unit as he had chest pains before attending a Hari Raya open house event in Kepala Batas.

Zakiyuddin, 60, was then referred for an angiogram.

At the time, he was stable and was able to communicate with his family but his doctor advised him to rest.

Zakiyuddin is a first-term Pinang Tunggal assemblyperson.

He is also the state Islamic affairs, industrial development and community relations committee chairperson.