IPOH, Oct 19 — More than 25,000 people from across the country have visited the grave of the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali in the three weeks since her passing, in a show of respect for her service and contributions.
Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, who is also her son, told Sinar Harian (SH), that the turnout was unprecedented, with mourners travelling not only from across Malaysia but also from Palembang, Indonesia, despite never having met her personally.
“I was informed that 25,000 people came from all over. This is truly a phenomenon, as they said such a situation has never happened before.
“Each time we brought my father, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, to the grave, seeing so many people there helped ease his grief at losing his partner of 70 years,” he was quoted as saying.
Mukhriz was speaking in his capacity as Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang) president after officiating the party’s Perak state annual convention at Hotel Seri Malaysia here, yesterday.
He recalled conversations with visitors who said they felt compelled to pay their respects because they remembered his mother’s lifelong service and struggle. Some even took leave from work simply to visit her grave, recite surah yasin, perform tahlil prayers and offer blessings.
Mukhriz said the outpouring of respect reflected the enduring legacy of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, who served tirelessly as a doctor, particularly for rural communities, and whose contributions continue to be cherished today.