SIBU: Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh and his wife, Datin Sri Leong Poh Ling, have expressed their condolences to former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his family following the passing of Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali.
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah, 100, died at 9.20am today (Sept 28) at the National Heart Institute (IJN) in Kuala Lumpur.
In a statement today (Sept 28), Wong said they were deeply saddened by the passing of the former prime minister’s wife, describing her as a Malaysian woman whose life was defined by compassion, dignity and service.
Wong, who served in public office for decades, said he had met Tun Dr Mahathir and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah on several occasions during their visits to Sarawak.
He said the late Sarawak Chief Minister, Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud, had entrusted him several times with receiving and accompanying the couple as minister-in-attendance.
“Those encounters left a lasting impression on me and my wife,” Wong said, describing Tun Dr Siti Hasmah as gracious, warm and humble.
He said her gentle manner made people feel at ease and that she remained approachable and sincere despite her stature and public standing.
“Whether at official functions or when meeting ordinary members of the public, she would greet people warmly and show genuine interest and concern,” he said.
Wong said her quiet dignity and kindness had made her deeply respected and admired.
He also highlighted her contributions to healthcare, women’s development, and the welfare of children and families, saying they reflected her commitment to public service and the wellbeing of Malaysians.
“Tun Dr Siti Hasmah’s life was one of grace, resilience, compassion and service,” he said, adding that her legacy would remain part of Malaysia’s history.
Wong said those who had met her, even briefly, would remember her warmth and humility as qualities of a genuinely kind and gracious person.
He extended his deepest condolences and highest respect to Tun Dr Mahathir and the entire family.
