Former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad’s Wife Siti Hasmah Dies at 100

Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, the wife of Malaysia’s longest-serving former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, has died at the age of 100, the former premier’s office confirmed. Current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his deep condolences in a statement following the news.

Siti Hasmah played an active role in public health and various social initiatives while standing alongside her husband throughout their seven-decade-long marriage and his political career.

According to Malaysia’s national news agency Bernama, citing the couple’s son Mokhzani Mahathir, she passed away at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur.

Widely admired in her own right, Siti Hasmah was known for her humility, warmth, and sense of humor, earning respect and affection across Malaysia.

Mahathir and Siti Hasmah first met while studying at medical college in Singapore in the late 1940s. The couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in August this year. They are survived by seven children, including businessman Mokhzani Mahathir, social activist Marina Mahathir, and prominent politician Mukhriz Mahathir.

Mahathir, 101, has often credited his wife as a key pillar behind his political career and achievements. He frequently praised her determination to pursue a university degree at a time when higher education for Malay women was still uncommon, describing her as an enduring source of support throughout his public life.