Anwar to attend funeral of Dr Hasmah, pays tribute to her service

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced his attendance at the funeral of Tun Dr Hasmah Mohd Ali, honoring her lifelong dedication and service to the nation. Responding to inquiries after an official event, Anwar confirmed his in-person presence at the memorial. The premier also conveyed his deepest condolences to former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family, emphasizing the country's profound respect for Dr Hasmah, affectionately known as Dr Siti Hasmah.

"In the current circumstances, we extend our sympathies to Tun Mahathir and his family. We remember Tun Hasmah's invaluable contributions and service to our nation," Anwar stated to reporters following the International Future Conference 2026 at ISTAC-IIUM. Earlier, Anwar interjected during the conference to break the news of Dr Hasmah's passing, expressing sorrow and inviting attendees to recite the Al-Fatihah in her memory.

Dr Hasmah, Malaysia's longest-serving prime minister's wife, passed away at the National Heart Institute at the age of 100. She was survived by her husband, Tun Dr Mahathir, 101, and their seven children. In 2016, she authored her autobiography, My Name is Hasmah, where she affectionately described Tun Mahathir as her "hero". In 2024, Dr Hasmah respectfully requested that people stop using the title "Siti" for her, opting to be known solely as Hasmah.