The day Mahathir spelt out his love for Hasmah
The family of former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad recreated a sentimental moment from 1955 where he used Scrabble tiles to express his love for his late wife. The gesture was staged by his grandchildren to honor the couple's long-standing relationship.
Why it matters
This human-interest story provides a rare, intimate look at the personal life of a long-serving political figure.
Seventy-one years after Dr Mahathir Mohamad spelt out his love for Dr Hasmah Ali over a game of Scrabble, their family recreated the moment this year. The setting had changed; the message had not. (Mokhzani Mahathir pics)
KUALA LUMPUR: There is a Scrabble board on the table at Merdeka Grill, the letters arranged across it to spell three words that have survived 71 years: I LOVE YOU.
Dr Mahathir Mohamad is leaning over the table, looking at the tiles. Around him are dinner, pastries, city lights and family.
It is a recreation, but not just any family game.
The scene has been staged by his grandchildren to recreate something their grandfather did for their grandmother, Dr Hasmah Mohamad Ali, in 1955.
The original was much simpler.
According to their son Mokhzani Mahathir, April 23 is the date his parents regard as the beginning of their love.
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