World · Malaysia Bureau
Dr Mahathir bids farewell to wife of seven decades
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad faced one of his most difficult days as his wife of 70 years, Tun Dr Hasmah Hamadzah, was laid to rest in Kuala Lumpur. The former prime minister's emotional farewell marked the end of a partnership that spanned seven decades.
LSN Malaysia ·
KUALA LUMPUR — Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad bid an emotional goodbye to his wife of seven decades on Saturday as Tun Dr Hasmah Hamadzah was laid to rest in the nation's capital.
The 98-year-old former prime minister was visibly moved during the funeral proceedings, reflecting the deep bond forged over their 70-year marriage. Dr Hasmah, who had been a constant figure alongside Dr Mahathir through his remarkable political career spanning multiple decades, passed away after a long life dedicated to public service and family.
Their partnership witnessed Malaysia's transformation from colonial rule through independence and modernisation, with Dr Hasmah playing a supportive role throughout her husband's tenure as the country's fourth prime minister from 1981 to 2003, and again from 2018 to 2020.
Dr Mahathir's emotional display underscored the profound personal loss experienced by the statesman, whose public life had often overshadowed his private devotion to his wife. The funeral drew well-wishers and dignitaries who came to pay their respects to the couple's enduring legacy.