PM: Demise of Aishah Ghani a great loss to the nation

The Prime Minister in a statement said the late Umno leader was highly regarded especially in championing issues on the people's welfare from all strata and groups.

In expressing his condolence to the family of the national figure, Najib said he deeply appreciated the contributions and deeds of the late leader to the nation and Umno.

"For Umno members, she should be made a model of true loyalty to the party for she sacrificed her entire life to the struggle of Umno," he said.

Aishah, 90, passed away at 12.50pm at the Gleneagles Hospital in Kuala Lumpur here after being admitted since last Friday for frail health.

Aishah was the first Malaysian woman to be appointed as Senator and the second woman to be appointed as minister after the country achieved independence.