World · Malaysia Bureau
Dr Mahathir reflects on 70-year marriage as grief over Hasmah's death continues
Former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has expressed gratitude for his seven-decade marriage to the late Datin Seri Hasmah Lee, three weeks after her passing. Despite his ongoing sorrow, the nonagenarian said he remains thankful to Allah for the time they spent together.
LSN Malaysia ·
Dr Mahathir, Malaysia's longest-serving prime minister, has broken his silence following the death of his wife of 70 years, offering a reflective tribute to their enduring partnership. Though the 99-year-old remains in deep grief, he has chosen to focus on gratitude rather than despair, describing Hasmah as a precious gift that had been temporarily lent to him by the Almighty.
The couple's seven-decade marriage spanned significant periods of Malaysian history, with Hasmah standing beside Dr Mahathir through his political career and multiple terms as head of government. Their relationship became emblematic of steadfast partnership across generations of national development.
Dr Mahathir's remarks underscore the personal toll of losing a life partner after such an extended union, while reflecting the cultural and religious values that have guided his approach to the loss. His words have resonated with Malaysians who have followed the couple's story across the decades.
The former premier's public acknowledgment of his grief marks a rare moment of personal reflection from the influential political figure, who has long maintained a disciplined public persona throughout his extensive career in public service.