KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 - Condolences from foreign leaders continued to pour in following the passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, with tributes highlighting her lifelong contributions to medicine, public health, and social welfare.
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over her passing and extended his heartfelt condolences to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, his family, and the people of Malaysia.
“Dr Siti Hasmah’s long and distinguished service in medicine, public health and social welfare would be remembered with respect,” he said, according to Pakistan’s Press Information Department.
Meanwhile, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu also expressed deep sadness, paying tribute to Dr Siti as one of Malaysia’s first women doctors and highlighting her contributions to maternal health and the development of women in rural areas.
Her leadership in gender equality and family welfare reflected a lifelong commitment to serving the community and empowering future generations.
He extended his condolences to Dr Mahathir and his family on behalf of the government and people of the Maldives.
Meanwhile, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen described Dr Siti as a respected doctor, public health advocate and a pioneer who devoted her life to serving Malaysians.
“In this time of profound grief, on behalf of the Senate of Cambodia and myself, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to you, your family, the government, and the people of Malaysia,” Hun Sen, who is also Cambodia’s Acting Head of State, said in a Facebook post.
The former Cambodian premier also highlighted Dr Siti's advocacy for maternal health, literacy, drug abuse prevention, and mental health, as well as her role in modernising Malaysia’s healthcare.
“She and her legacy will be remembered for many generations to come,” he said.
Dr Siti was laid to rest at 6.20pm at Pusara Negara in Precinct 20, Putrajaya. Her widower, their children, and other family members were present.
A state-level funeral was held to honour the wife of the former prime minister, who passed away at the National Heart Institute at 9.20am today at the age of 100.
