PETALING JAYA: The physiotherapist who was seen comforting Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad at the funeral of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali has paid tribute to the late stateswoman, describing the opportunity to be by her side as an honour he would always cherish.
Kevin Choo Zhang Hui, 31, shared his reflections in a Threads post on Friday (Oct 2) following the death of Dr Siti Hasmah, saying he was deeply moved by the opportunity to have spent time with her.
"Dr Siti Hasmah is someone I deeply respect and admire. To have been there and to have shared even a small part of her journey in life is something I will always cherish.
"There are moments that become memories and there are memories that become a part of our hearts forever," he said.
A picture of Choo standing beside Dr Mahathir during the funeral went viral on social media.
He was seen occasionally placing his hand on Dr Mahathir's back to comfort the former prime minister, while wiping away his own tears.
Choo said he had the physiotherapist for Dr Mahathir and Dr Siti Hasmah for about two years.
"When I first started working with them, I felt a little shy and awkward… but over time, the relationship became more comfortable," he said.
He said his role during the funeral was to monitor Dr Mahathir's physical condition and assist him with whatever was needed.
"Seeing Dr M in such a sad state really touched me and brought me to tears," he said.
Choo said Dr Mahathir, who was in a wheelchair and required oxygen support, was determined to attend the funeral.
"Seeing that affected me deeply. It showed that behind the figure of a great statesman was a husband who had lost the most important person in his life," he said.
Choo said he tried to remain professional but found it difficult to hold back his emotions.
"I tried to hold back my emotions but eventually the tears came. I think anyone who was there at the time could feel how heavy the atmosphere was," he said.
Choo said Dr Siti Hasmah's death affected him personally as he had cared for and got to know the couple over several years.
Dr Siti Hasmah, 100, died at the National Heart Institute (IJN) at 9.20am on Monday (Sept 28).
She was laid to rest at the Pusara Negara cemetery in Precinct 20, Putrajaya, later that day.
