HAVING repeatedly covered former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in Langkawi, I was devastated when I heard of the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali’s passing.
During his first term as the prime minister, Dr Mahathir would visit Langkawi on average once every month just before he retired in 2003, often with Dr Siti Hasmah.
Langkawi is an island the couple adored, and where they shared numerous memories.
For the handful of journalists who covered Dr Mahathir in Langkawi, we witnessed his great love and devotion to Dr Siti Hasmah and his dedication to developing the island.
During his visits, Dr Mahathir would literally zoom from one part of the island to the other, and we journalists had to keep up with him.
He has brought great development to the island since declaring it a duty-free entrepôt in 1987.
He brought the le Tour de Langkawi race, the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) series and, for those who remember, the Langkawi International Dialogue with African leaders.
He inspired entrepreneurs to invest in hotels and tourism products, including a wide array of infrastructure.
He also never forgot the needs of the locals and would, along with Dr Siti Hasmah, make sure he spent time listening to them.
Along the way, Dr Siti Hasmah, the soft-spoken First Lady, was there – a strong, silent figure who stood firmly beside Dr Mahathir.
During several interview sessions, Dr Siti Hasmah would quietly leave the room, smiling at journalists and often waving as she left.
I remember her as a woman of class. One whose warmth could be felt the minute she entered a room and immediately made you feel comfortable.
She also had a great sense of humour and never missed the opportunity to share jokes and laughter with us whenever possible.
There is absolutely not a single flaw one could find with this great woman – she was the best First Lady any nation could ask for.
The love and understanding we noticed between Dr Mahathir and Dr Siti Hasmah is beyond words.
Many in the younger generation may not know the touching origin behind the name of Dr Mahathir's MAHA clinic, which was first opened in 1957 in Alor Setar.
I was once treated there too when I was based in the state capital.
It was named by blending the names of a deeply devoted couple: "Ma" from Tun Mahathir and "Ha" from Dr Siti Hasmah.
Beyond serving the community, the clinic stands as a lasting monument to the loving couple.
Dr Siti Hasmah may have left us, but the memories and the privilege I have of knowing her personally over the years are invaluable.
Langkawi will never be the same without her presence, and each time I travel the island roads, I will always remember her warm, kind smile.
Thank you, Dr Siti Hasmah, for all the wonderful memories. You will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. – October 5, 2026
