Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, a pioneering woman doctor and respected national figure, passed away at the age of 100 on September 28, 2026, at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Malaysia. The wife of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, her death marked the end of a life dedicated to healthcare, social welfare, and public service.
Following the announcement of her passing at 9:20 a.m., condolences poured in from across the political spectrum, royalty, and the public. Members of the Malaysian royal families, including His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and the Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, expressed their sadness at the loss. They acknowledged Dr Siti Hasmah’s lifelong contributions and her close ties with her home state of Selangor.
Dr Siti Hasmah’s remains were taken from IJN to the family residence at The Mines Residence, Seri Kembangan, before being transported to Masjid As-Syarif in Taman Sungai Besi Indah for funeral prayers. A large crowd gathered to pay their final respects, reflecting the widespread admiration she garnered over the decades. The burial took place at the Muslim cemetery in Presint 20, Putrajaya, with a state funeral held in her honor.
The former prime minister, Tun Dr Mahathir, appeared visibly emotional during the proceedings, notably breaking down in tears at the burial. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, accompanied by his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, was among the political leaders present, offering condolences directly to Dr Mahathir. The Prime Minister described Dr Siti Hasmah as a motherly figure to the nation, highlighting her gentle yet steadfast spirit and the lasting impact of her care and service.
Other political leaders, including Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, and former prime ministers, also paid tribute. They noted her humility, strength, and pioneering role in advancing women’s status in Malaysia, as well as her contributions to the nation’s healthcare development.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized Dr Siti Hasmah’s decades of dedication to the medical profession and public health, underscoring her influence on future generations. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek and Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil similarly lauded her lifetime of service and resilience.
Echoing international recognition, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong praised her extraordinary life, noting her significant contributions to healthcare, education, and social causes in Malaysia. He highlighted her warmth, grace, and vitality, characteristics fondly remembered by those who knew her.
Throughout her life, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah was widely regarded for her quiet strength, compassion, and role as a supportive partner to Dr Mahathir during his long political career. Her legacy continues to inspire Malaysians across diverse backgrounds.