NATION’S first female Chief Judge of Malaya and a pioneering figure in the nation’s judiciary Tan Sri Siti Norma Yaakob died this afternoon at the age of 85.

Her son, Meor Amri Meor Ayob, confirmed that she passed away at KPJ Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital at 1.51pm due to pneumonia.

Born on 6 July 1940 in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Siti Norma made history throughout her legal career by becoming the first woman in Malaysia to hold several of the judiciary’s highest offices. She was the country’s first female High Court judge, later becoming the first woman appointed to both the Court of Appeal and the Federal Court.

Her influence also extended beyond Malaysia when she became the first Malaysian woman appointed as a judge to the Dubai International Financial Centre Court in 2008.

Funeral arrangements were scheduled for later in the day, with her body to be bathed and funeral prayers held at Darul Ehsan Mosque in Taman TAR, Ampang at 4.30pm, before burial at the Ukay Perdana Muslim Cemetery following the prayers.

Former Court of Appeal judge Datuk Yaacob Md Sam described Siti Norma as an outstanding judicial figure whose rulings had a lasting impact on Malaysia’s legal landscape.

“I pray that the soul of the late Tan Sri Siti Norma may find a place among the faithful and righteous,” he said.

Former Chief Justice Tun Zaki Azmi also paid tribute to her legacy, recalling her commitment to the legal profession and her warm personality.

“The last time I met the deceased was last year at a legal function. I am very proud of her success and achievements because she was the first woman to become a High Court Judge, Court of Appeal Judge and Federal Court Judge,” he said.

Siti Norma’s decades-long career helped pave the way for greater female representation in Malaysia’s judiciary and left an enduring legacy in the development of the country’s legal system. – March 13, 2026