In a statement today, the former prime minister also thanked those who helped with the funeral arrangements.

“I am also deeply touched by the continuous prayers offered for my wife, Hasmah, to this day, whether at her grave or from wherever people may be,” he said.

Dr Mahathir said he had tried to return to his office over the past day or two but was not yet strong enough.

He said the loss reminded him to be grateful for the many years he had shared with his wife, despite the pain of losing her.

“It reminds me, amid such painful grief, to remain grateful to Allah SWT for having lent Hasmah to me for so long, until this stage of my life, when I have only a little time left,” he said.

He also apologised for being unable to acknowledge some greetings and waves or respond to condolences during the period.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise if, during this period, there were greetings I did not return, waves I did not acknowledge, or condolences I have yet to respond to. Thank you,” he said.

Dr Siti Hasmah died at the age of 100 on Sept 28. She was laid to rest at the Presint 20 Muslim Cemetery in Putrajaya.