Dr M recalls shock at wife Dr Hasmah’s sudden passing despite signs of good health

Speaking during a visit by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, who came to pay his last respects, Dr Mahathir shared his surprise at the sudden loss in a video posted online. — Picture via Facebook/Kesultanan Pahang

By Malay Mail

First Published: Tuesday, 29 Sep 2026 2:26 PM MYT

PETALING JAYA, Sept 29 — Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has said he did not expect his wife, Tun Dr Hasmah Ali, to pass away yesterday, recalling that she had appeared to be in good health the night before. 

Speaking during a visit by the Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, who came to pay his last respects, Dr Mahathir shared his surprise at the sudden loss in a video posted online.

“I didn’t expect her to die today,” he said, adding that Hasmah had seemed “quite well” the previous evening. 

The Pahang ruler was accompanied by Tengku Ampuan Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah and Tengku Mahkota Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah during the condolence visit. Dr Mahathir also thanked the royal family for making the journey from Pahang to offer their condolences. 

Hasmah died at about 9.25am yesterday at the National Heart Institute. She was 100 years old. 

She was accorded a state funeral before being laid to rest at Pusara Negara in Putrajaya on the same day. Her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from leaders and members of the public, many remembering her warmth, grace and contributions to the nation. 

Her son, Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, said Hasmah had been in good spirits the night before her death, but her condition deteriorated suddenly the following day. Another son, Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, said Dr Mahathir remained by her side until her final moments. 

Dr Mahathir and Hasmah were married for 70 years, forming one of Malaysia’s most enduring and recognisable partnerships in public life.