Mahathir Mohamad and wife set ASEAN longevity records

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and his wife, Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, have been recognized for setting three official longevity records. During a ceremony at the Perdana Leadership Foundation, ASEAN Records named Mahathir the region’s oldest living former prime minister and Siti Hasmah the oldest living spouse of a former prime minister.

Additionally, Asia Records recognized the couple as the first former head of government and spouse to both reach centenarian status. These milestones follow a series of personal celebrations for the couple, including Mahathir’s 101st birthday on July 10, Siti Hasmah’s 100th birthday on July 12, and their 70th wedding anniversary on August 5.

The couple originally met in 1947 while studying medicine at King Edward VII College of Medicine. Mahathir served two terms as Malaysia's prime minister, totaling over 22 years, while Siti Hasmah has been a prominent advocate for maternal health, family planning, and mental health.