Love, death, and heartbreak

Dr Hasmah Ali, who was the wife of Malaysia's former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, has passed away. She was known for her unwavering support for Mahathir, who was often a tough and hard-nosed politician. The two were married for 55 years and were always together whenever protocol and decorum permitted. Mahathir's emotional state at Hasmah's funeral was a stark reminder of the depth of their bond.

The loss of such a strong, caring partner is something that many can empathize with, as many Malaysians have grown up with Mahathir and Hasmah in their lives. The author also shares a personal anecdote about their own parents, who both passed away many years ago. The author's mother, like Hasmah, spoke openly about death as the inevitable next step in life and wished that her husband would pass away first.

The author's father, despite being a tough and hard man, was supported and cared for by their mother, who sacrificed much to raise their family. The author believes that Hasmah was a woman of the same strength and selflessness as their own mother, and that her passing is a reminder of the importance of a strong, steady partner in life. The author expresses their condolences to Mahathir and his family during this difficult time.