Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, a pioneering physician and the wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, died on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the age of 100. According to reports from Bernama and Channel News Asia, she passed away at the Institut Jantung Nasional (IJN) at approximately 09:20 local time, with her death confirmed to the national news agency by her son, Mokhzani Mahathir.
Medical Pioneer and Public Health Advocate
Born on July 12, 1926, in Klang, Selangor, Siti Hasmah built a distinguished career as one of the first Malay female doctors in Malaysia. She completed her medical training at the King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore, graduating in 1955. Following her studies, she joined the Malaysian Ministry of Health, working as a medical officer in various regions including Kedah, where her work centered on public health, maternal and child health services, family planning, and drug abuse prevention.
She married Mahathir Mohamad in 1956, marking the beginning of a partnership that spanned seven decades until they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in August 2026. The couple raised seven children, including social activist and writer Marina Mahathir and former Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir.
Decades of Public Leadership
During the periods her husband served as prime minister from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020, Siti Hasmah utilized her prominent platform to champion women’s welfare, family health, literacy, and mental health initiatives. She held leadership positions in several organizations, including the Girl Guides Association of Malaysia. Earlier in 2026, ASEAN Records recognized her and her husband as the oldest living former prime ministerial couple.
Tributes poured in from national leaders following her passing. King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar expressed condolences via Facebook, offering prayers for the family’s strength and patience. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Siti Hasmah would receive a state funeral, instructing the Chief Secretary to the Government and the Chief of Defence Forces to coordinate the arrangements. In a social media statement, Anwar described her as a soft-spoken yet resilient figure who carried a motherly care for those around her.
Details of Siti Hasmah passing and career
When and where did Siti Hasmah pass away?
Siti Hasmah died on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the Institut Jantung Nasional (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur at age 100.
What were her primary professional achievements?
She was one of Malaysia’s first Malay female doctors, graduating in 1955 from the King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore, and dedicated much of her career to public health, maternal care, and social advocacy.
Who confirmed the news of her passing?
Her son, Mokhzani Mahathir, confirmed her death to the national news agency Bernama.
What funeral arrangements were announced?
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Siti Hasmah will be accorded a state funeral, with preparations overseen by top government and military officials.
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