Cabinet prays for Dr Mahathir's health as he remains under observation at IJN

NATIONAL HEART INSTITUTE (IJN), KUALA LUMPUR, 30 SEPTEMBER 2026 —

Kuala Lumpur, Sept 30 — The Malaysian Cabinet convened on Tuesday to offer prayers for the health of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who remains under medical observation at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur.

While the admission has drawn significant national attention, his family has publicly stated that his condition is stable and there is no cause for concern, describing the hospitalization as a precautionary measure to monitor his well-being following a period of intense emotional stress.

The decision to admit Dr Mahathir was driven by the need for professional medical oversight in the immediate aftermath of his wife’s death. According to reports from Bernama, his son, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, clarified that the former prime minister was brought to IJN specifically so doctors could monitor his vitals and general health.

Mokhzani emphasized that the past two days have been particularly stressful for Dr Mahathir, but he assured the public that his father is currently okay. The family’s statement serves to counter any speculation regarding a sudden medical crisis, framing the hospital stay as a standard procedure for an individual of his age dealing with significant grief.

Dr Mahathir’s press secretary, Sufi Yusoff, provided further context on the physical toll the recent events have taken on the former leader. In a statement reported by Berita Harian, Yusoff noted that Dr Mahathir was exhausted, citing a combination of emotional upheaval, the hot weather, and a lack of sufficient sleep.

Yusoff described the situation as a challenging combination for someone of Dr Mahathir’s age, stating, “He was exhausted from all the emotional ups and downs, the hot weather and not getting enough rest. All that is not a good combination for someone who is 101 years old.” This explanation highlights the physiological impact of grief and environmental factors on the elderly, underscoring why medical professionals deemed observation necessary.

The death of Dr Siti Hasmah, which precipitated this current situation, occurred at IJN on Monday. She died at the age of 100 after her condition deteriorated following a heart attack. The former first lady was laid to rest at Pusara Negara in Precinct 20, Putrajaya, later that same day. The timing of her death and Dr Mahathir’s subsequent admission has placed the former prime minister at the center of national mourning and concern.

As a former head of government who served two non-consecutive terms, Dr Mahathir remains a pivotal figure in Malaysian politics and public life, making his health a matter of significant public interest.

Dr Mahathir and Dr Siti Hasmah, both of whom were doctors by training, had a long and prominent marriage that spanned seven decades. They were married for 70 years and had seven children, including Tan Sri Mokhzani, who has been a vocal spokesperson for the family during this difficult period.

Their union was not only a personal partnership but also a public one, with both figures playing significant roles in Malaysian society and politics over the years. The loss of Dr Siti Hasmah marks the end of an era for the Mahathir family, which has been deeply intertwined with the nation’s political landscape for several decades.

The Cabinet’s decision to pray for Dr Mahathir’s health reflects the high regard in which he is held by the current government, despite the political differences that have historically existed between him and various administrations. This gesture underscores the respect accorded to former prime ministers in Malaysia and the recognition of their contributions to the country.

The collective prayer also serves as a unifying moment for the nation, as citizens and officials alike express their condolences for the loss of Dr Siti Hasmah and their hopes for Dr Mahathir’s recovery.

In the broader context of Malaysian public life, the health of former leaders often becomes a focal point for national discourse. Dr Mahathir’s age and his recent bereavement have amplified this interest, with media outlets closely monitoring his condition. The family’s consistent messaging of stability and the medical team’s observation protocol aim to manage public anxiety while ensuring the former prime minister receives the care he needs.

The situation remains dynamic, with updates expected as Dr Mahathir continues his stay at IJN.

The immediate next step in this development is the continued medical monitoring of Dr Mahathir at the National Heart Institute. His family and press secretary have indicated that he is stable, but the duration of his stay and any further medical updates will depend on the doctors’ assessments. The nation awaits further news on his condition, with the hope that he will recover fully from the stress of the past few days.

The focus remains on his well-being as he navigates this period of loss and recovery.

Related: National Heart Institute (IJN) · Dr Mahathir Mohamad