{
  "id": 10627156,
  "title": "Nation grieves with Dr Mahathir",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/29/nation-grieves-with-dr-mahathir",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-29T06:12:52.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/opinion/letters/2026/09/1543726/nation-grieves-dr-mahathir"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Dr Mahathir's wife, Tun Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, was a beloved figure and an icon to many. Her kind and gentle nature, along with her unwavering support for her husband for the past 70 years, was greatly appreciated. This article aims to provide guidance on how to support the caregivers, friends, and families of Tun Dr Mahathir during this difficult time.\n\nGrief is a natural and complex process that cannot be defined by set rules. It is important to allow the bereaved to experience their emotions in their own way, as long as it does not cause harm to themselves. Coping with loss is challenging, and it is crucial to help the bereaved navigate through their grief. It is essential to acknowledge and accept the pain of loss, as well as the various emotions that may arise, such as sadness and crying.\n\nThe grief process is necessary for the bereaved to eventually move forward, and life will never be the same again. It is not fair to promise that life will return to its previous state, as it simply cannot. Losing someone important in one's life can be overwhelming, and it is not easy to remain strong in the face of such a loss. Therefore, it is crucial not to pressure the bereaved to be strong while they are processing their grief.\n\nIndividuals respond to loss in different ways, and it is vital to respect their unique grieving process. The reminders of their loss may trigger the grief reaction, which is a normal occurrence. It is also common for sleeping and eating habits to be affected during this time, and caregivers should ensure that the bereaved individual maintains a balanced diet. The bereaved person may need quiet time alone, and this should be respected.\n\nIn the case of Tun Dr Mahathir, the public figure faced a significant loss after the passing of his wife. Many people were eager to see and be with him during this difficult period. The bereaved individual has the right to decline any guests during their grieving process, and it is essential to honor and respect this decision. Be mindful of your words and actions, as they may have a significant impact on the bereaved individual. Tun Siti Hasmah was an admired and graceful lady, and it is hoped that God will forgive her and bless her soul. May Tun Dr Mahathir and his family find the strength to cope with this difficult moment.",
  "summary": "LETTER: Tun Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali was an icon. A mother to all. Seeing her soft, gentle smile, we know the loving and kind-hearted lady next to our former prime minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, for the last 70 years.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}