Former wife of Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Tengku Puteri Zainah Tengku Eskandar, has passed away at the age of 70.

In a statement expressing condolences over her passing, Najib’s Facebook page said the late Tengku Puteri Zainah had been an important part of Najib’s life and was the mother of their children.

The statement also acknowledged that Najib was currently unable to be with his family during the difficult period.

“Although Najib is currently in circumstances that prevent him from being with his family during this sad moment, his thoughts and prayers are always with the children and the entire family of the deceased,” the statement read.