Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was admitted to the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur on the night of September 29 for observation, two days after the passing of his wife, Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali. The reason for his admission remains unspecified pending an official diagnosis, according to his aide Sufi Yusoff.

Mahathir's son, Mokhzani Mahathir, described his father's condition as stable and said there was no immediate cause for concern. "He was admitted to IJN for observation," Mokhzani told a national news agency. "The past two days have been very stressful for him. For now, he is doing fine and is not in a worrisome condition."

Mahathir, 101, has a documented history of heart issues and has undergone bypass surgeries. He has been hospitalized multiple times in recent years, including a January stay following a hip fracture sustained in a fall. At the time of his latest admission, he reportedly used a motorized wheelchair and required supplemental oxygen.

Siti Hasmah, a medical doctor and advocate of public health, died on September 28 at the age of 100 after more than 70 years of marriage to Mahathir. The couple began their partnership as medical students in Singapore and remained married through Mahathir’s lengthy political career, during which he served as Malaysia’s prime minister in two separate periods spanning more than two decades. Together, they had seven children.

The former leader was visibly emotional during his wife's funeral, held on September 28, where he was seen tearfully confiding in Malaysia’s former king that he had not expected her to pass away that day. The death of Siti Hasmah prompted widespread mourning across Malaysia, with many citizens expressing condolences and sharing memories on social media.

Leaders in Singapore, including both current and former officials, extended their sympathies to Mahathir, recognizing Siti Hasmah’s pioneering role in advancing public healthcare and education. Throughout their marriage, she was known for tempering Mahathir’s often combative political persona, with their relationship noted for its openness and affection, traits that endured into their later years.