There are some moments in life when a person should simply be left alone.
The passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali is one of those moments. For 70 years, she was Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s wife and companion. Their life together stretched across some of the most important chapters in Malaysia’s history.
At her burial at Pusara Negara on Sept 28, Tun Mahathir was seen shedding tears beside her grave.¹ Four days later, he returned to the cemetery to visit her again. Bernama reported that he became emotional and shed tears as he remembered the wife who had been by his side for seven decades.²
That was not a political moment. It was a husband mourning his wife.
Tun Mahathir has spent most of his adult life in the public eye. His words, decisions and political battles have been reported and debated for decades. But grief is different. There must surely be a line between legitimate public interest and simply allowing an elderly man a private moment with his memories.
The media has a duty to report. That duty is important. But it also carries a responsibility to know when to step back.
Interestingly, Bernama reported that members of the public who were at the cemetery gave Tun Mahathir space and respect during his visit.² Perhaps that is something the media can also take from the occasion.
A photograph of a grieving man may attract attention, but sometimes the more decent thing to do is to put the camera down.
Tun Mahathir has lived much of his life in public. At this particular moment, he deserves the opportunity to grieve in peace.
Footnotes
¹ Bernama, “Seven Decades Together, Tun M Sheds Tears As Tun Siti Hasmah Laid To Rest,” 28 September 2026. The report described Tun Mahathir shedding tears beside his wife’s grave during the final moments of the burial. (BERNAMA)
² Bernama, “Tun Dr Mahathir Ziarah Pusara Tun Dr Siti Hasmah,” 1 October 2026. Bernama reported that Tun Mahathir spent about 20 minutes at the grave, became emotional and shed tears, while members of the public gave him space and respect. (BERNAMA)
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