PETALING JAYA: Tributes have poured in from Malaysians following the passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described Dr Siti Hasmah’s passing as a profound loss for the nation and her family.
“For decades, we witnessed her by the side of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, sharing their lives and standing by her husband as he shouldered the responsibility of serving the country.
“It is difficult to imagine the emptiness left by the loss of someone who has been by one’s side for so long,” he said.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong paid tribute to Dr Siti Hasmah for her many contributions to the nation.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah,” he said.
“Tun Dr Siti Hasmah devoted much of her life to the service of the nation. Beyond her distinguished contributions as a doctor and national figure, she was admired for her warmth, grace, humility and quiet strength.
“Her presence and contributions have touched many lives, and she will be remembered with great respect and affection by Malaysians,” Dr Wee added.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said Dr Siti Hasmah was a respected doctor and medical figure who had dedicated decades of service to the development of the nation’s healthcare sector.
“As a distinguished doctor and prominent figure who dedicated decades of service, her contributions to the medical profession, public health and community development will be remembered for generations to come,” he said.
Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek said Dr Siti Hasmah would continue to be remembered for her decades of contributions to healthcare and social welfare.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil described Dr Siti Hasmah as a woman who stood steadfastly beside a prominent figure, accompanying him through every step and struggle, as well as the ups and downs of life, with selfless sacrifice.
“She was a pillar of strength to Tun Dr Mahathir. Now, after years of walking together, the journey must continue without the person who had always been by his side.
“My condolences to Tun Dr Mahathir and his family. May they be granted strength and fortitude in facing this loss,” he said.
Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin extended his condolences to Dr Mahathir and his family, describing Dr Siti Hasmah as a distinguished woman and national icon who was always humble.
Also conveying his condolences was PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, who paid tribute to Dr Siti Hasmah’s pioneering contributions, saying she played a pivotal role in elevating the status of women in the country.
Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman expressed sorrow as he recalled his final meeting with Dr Siti Hasmah.
“There was nothing about that day that felt like goodbye. If only I had known it would be our last meeting, I would have wished for those two hours to last forever,” he said.
Songstress Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin described Dr Siti Hasmah’s passing as a great loss to all Malaysians, given her extensive contributions to healthcare, welfare and the advancement of women throughout her life.
“She was a deeply caring and gentle woman with a strong maternal nature,” she wrote.
Singer Jaclyn Victor said she would always remember her “beautiful Tun Dr Siti Hasmah”.
“I love how you used to touch my face when you spoke to me,” Victor wrote.
“It always made me feel special. Thank you for being such a beautiful lady with gentleness and kindness written all over you.”
