SINGAPORE, Sept 28 - Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has paid tribute to the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, remembering the pioneering doctor for her contributions to healthcare, education and social causes that touched generations of Malaysians.
In extending his deepest condolences to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family, he said Dr Siti led an extraordinary life.
“A pioneer in her field, she made important contributions to healthcare, education, and social causes in Malaysia. Her contributions touched the lives of generations of Malaysians.
“Beyond her public contributions, she will be remembered for her warmth, grace, and zest for life. She brought warmth and vitality to all that she did and will be fondly remembered by all who knew her,” he said in a Facebook post tonight.
Meanwhile, Singapore Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan paid tribute to Dr Siti's pioneering contributions to medicine and public health, saying that her life and career paved the way for generations of women in the profession.
"She began her career at a time when there were few women doctors in Malaysia and went on to champion the health and well-being of women, children, and rural communities.
“Her life and career opened doors for many who came after her, and she showed how medicine, at its best, is not only about treating patients, but also improving lives and serving society,” he said in a Facebook post.
In 1947, Dr Siti Hasmah enrolled at the King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore and was the only Malay woman studying medicine there that year.
After enduring the demands of medical training, she graduated in June 1955, becoming one of the earliest Malay women to enter the medical profession at a time when it was still largely dominated by men.
Dr Siti passed away at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur this morning at the age of 100. She was laid to rest following a state funeral at Pusara Negara, Precinct 20, Putrajaya at 6.20pm, with her widower, their children, and family members present.
