Condolences pour in for Dr Hasmah, to be accorded state funeral

PUTRAJAYA, 28 SEPTEMBER 2026 —

The nation paused in collective grief on Sunday morning as Dr Hasmah Ali, the widow of former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and a towering figure in Malaysian public life, passed away.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Dr Hasmah would be accorded a state funeral, a distinction reserved for those who have rendered exceptional service to the country, underscoring the magnitude of her legacy and the respect she commanded across political and social divides.

The decision to grant a state funeral reflects the consensus that Dr Hasmah’s contributions extended far beyond the domestic sphere. As the wife of the architect of the New Economic Policy and a key driver of Malaysia’s industrialization, she was a central figure in the nation’s modernization. Her passing marks the end of an era for a generation of Malaysians who grew up seeing her as a symbol of dignity, resilience, and maternal care.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong issued a statement praying that the deceased would be counted among the faithful, setting the tone for a day of solemn reflection and national mourning.

The logistical arrangements for the final rites were detailed by the Prime Minister’s Department, which outlined a precise schedule to allow the public to pay their respects. Dr Hasmah’s remains were brought to the As-Syarif Mosque in Taman Sungai Besi Indah, Seri Kembangan, at 1.30 pm for prayers and final rites. This stop was intended to provide an opportunity for the public to offer their final condolences.

Following the prayers, her remains were transported to the Statesmen’s Mausoleum, known as Pusara Negara, in Presint 20, Putrajaya, where she was laid to rest at 4.30 pm. The choice of the Statesmen’s Mausoleum, a site reserved for former heads of state and distinguished national figures, further cements her status in the pantheon of Malaysia’s historical leaders.

Political leaders from across the spectrum offered tributes that highlighted her role in uplifting Malaysian women. Takiyuddin Hassan, the secretary-general of the Islamic Party (PAS), emphasized that Dr Hasmah played a key role in advancing the status of women in various fields, including health, education, and the economy, particularly during her husband’s tenure as Prime Minister.

He hailed her as a "mother to the nation," a title that resonated with many who viewed her not just as a political spouse but as a moral compass for the country. His comments underscored the bipartisan respect she commanded, bridging ideological divides with her personal integrity and public service.

The personal connections of Dr Hasmah were also highlighted by younger political figures who had recently interacted with her. Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, the Member of Parliament for Muar, shared that he and his fiancée, Bella Astilah, had met with Dr Hasmah and Dr Mahathir just days before her passing.

In an Instagram post, Syed Saddiq described her as "kind, funny, warm and full of the kind of wisdom that only comes from a lifetime of love, sacrifice and experience." He expressed deep sadness that she would not be present at their wedding next month but vowed that the advice she offered would remain with them forever.

"We will carry it into our marriage, into our home, and insyaAllah, for the rest of our lives," he wrote, illustrating the personal impact she had on the next generation of leaders.

Beyond politics, Dr Hasmah’s influence permeated the cultural and sporting fabric of the nation. Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim shared his condolence message on his X account, accompanied by a photograph of Dr Hasmah, reflecting the royal family’s respect for her. In the sporting world, national badminton legend Razif Sidek described her passing as a great loss to the country’s badminton family.

As the captain of the 1992 Thomas Cup squad, Sidek recalled that Dr Hasmah, in her capacity as patron of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), was regarded as a mother figure by the players. "She was always close to the players and took a keen interest in their preparations," Sidek told Bernama.

He noted that she would often visit during training sessions to offer words of encouragement, stating, "We regarded her as the mother of the Thomas Cup squad at the time... We will never forget her contributions when Malaysia won the 1992 Thomas Cup at Stadium Negara."

The cultural sector also mourned the loss of a woman who had championed the arts and welfare. National songstress Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin took to her Instagram account to share her grief, describing Dr Hasmah’s passing as a great loss to all Malaysians.

"I regard the passing of the late Hasmah as a great loss to all Malaysians, given her many services and contributions to healthcare, welfare and the development of women throughout her life," Nurhaliza posted. She also offered prayers for Dr Mahathir and his family, wishing them the resilience and strength to face this difficult ordeal.

"The late Hasmah was a very caring and gentle woman, with a strong maternal instinct," she added, highlighting the personal qualities that endear her to the public.

Government ministers who served under Dr Mahathir’s administration also paid tribute, recalling their professional interactions with Dr Hasmah. Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that his experience of interacting closely with her during the 2018 to 2020 administration was immensely valuable. "She had lived through so many important phases in our country’s journey, always carrying herself with calmness, humility and dignity, qualities that have always earned the respect of Malaysians," Loke said.

Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong offered a similar perspective, describing Dr Hasmah as caring and "never overbearing yet quietly firm and resolute." Liew noted that she was a role model for millions, especially for women, and that while she appeared solemn in public, he was fortunate to see her playful and cheerful side in private settings. "She was truly a wonderful lady," he concluded.

The outpouring of grief extended to ordinary citizens, whose comments on social media platforms painted a picture of a woman who was universally respected and loved. One commenter noted that Dr Hasmah was a "rare personality who personified the best of Malaysians," stating that her family’s loss was indeed the nation’s loss. Another user described her as the "constant star in Tun M's life," emphasizing her role as wife, mother, and lifelong companion.

The comments reflected a deep sense of loss, with many expressing that she represented everything that was good for the country. The widespread nature of the tributes, from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to everyday citizens, illustrates the unique position Dr Hasmah occupied in the Malaysian psyche, transcending political affiliations to become a symbol of national unity and moral strength.

The state funeral arrangements and the subsequent burial at the Statesmen’s Mausoleum serve as a final testament to her legacy. As the nation continues to process the loss, the memories of her contributions to healthcare, education, and women’s empowerment remain vivid. The advice she offered to younger generations, as recalled by Syed Saddiq, and the encouragement she provided to athletes, as remembered by Razif Sidek, will continue to resonate.

Dr Hasmah’s life, marked by service and dignity, has left an indelible mark on Malaysia’s history, and her passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the country’s journey. The nation honors her not just as a First Lady, but as a mother to the country, whose influence will be felt for generations to come.

Related: Dr Hasmah Ali · Putrajaya