At Dr Hasmah’s grave, Malaysians reflect on a life that touched generations

On October 1, the resting place of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali at Pusara Negara has witnessed an ongoing flow of visitors offering prayers and expressing gratitude. Despite some knowing her personally and others only through stories, the common sentiment among visitors was an appreciation for the figure who became a significant part of the nation's history.

A Bernama survey revealed that visitors, including those from nearby Putrajaya and Cyberjaya, arrived as early as noon to engage in reflection and offer prayers. Muslim visitors recited Surah Yasin and prayed at the graveside, while visitors of various ethnicities also paid their last respects. The atmosphere was emotional, with visitors unable to hold back tears during prayers and interviews, despite not having met the deceased in person.

Several medical officers, who grew up during the era of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, found the visit significant, as they attributed their discipline, punctuality, and family values to the couple. The Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer, Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, shared that the late Tun always treated journalists and photographers warmly, emphasizing that she never allowed her status as the prime minister's wife to create a barrier.

A teacher, Wan Mohd Khairi Wan Hassan, brought a group of students to visit the grave, citing the couple's influence on his own family. As of September 28, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, who was 100 years old, had passed away at the National Heart Institute and was laid to rest at Pusara Negara in Putrajaya on the same day.