#SHOWBIZ: 'She was like a mother to everyone': Fazley Yaakob remembers Siti Hasmah

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Fazley Yaakob, the singer, celebrity chef, and actor, has paid tribute to the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, reflecting on her warmth, humility, and motherly nature after her passing.

The former executive director of the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) shared his sorrow on social media, recalling his 10-year tenure where he frequently interacted with Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, the wife of former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Fazley described her as someone who always spoke with grace and measured words, acting like a mother to everyone she met, irrespective of their status or background.

He highlighted an incident that demonstrated her kindness during one of his stints at PWTC. A female staff member had accidentally spilled water requested by Tun, staining her own clothes. Instead of reacting with annoyance, Tun immediately stood up to help the staff member, asking if she was alright or hurt, despite her own clothes being soiled. The staff member broke down in tears, touched by her kindness, repeatedly apologising for the incident.

Fazley emphasized that her noble heart and strong maternal nature left an indelible mark on him. He concluded his tribute by expressing gratitude for the legacy of kindness she leaves behind, saying, "Thank you for always being a pillar of strength and encouragement to all of us. We will miss you."

The late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah was widely respected for her gentle demeanor, charitable works, and steadfast support as the wife of Malaysia's longest-serving Prime Minister. Her passing earlier today has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the nation.