Kuala Lampur, Sept. 29 -- We, the members of G25, join Malaysians throughout the country in mourning the passing of Yang Amat Berbahagia Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, and extend our deepest condolences to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, her children and grandchildren, her extended family, and to all who knew and loved her.

Tun Dr Siti Hasmah occupied a special place in the hearts of Malaysians. For decades, she was a familiar and reassuring presence in our national life. Many came to know her affectionately as Ibu Negara, not merely because of the position she held beside the Prime Minister, but because of the warmth, grace and genuine concern for people that she brought to her public life.

Her contribution to Malaysia began long before she ...