Malaysia’s oldest woman and person alive, Annamah Abukutty, certified by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) has celebrated her 110th birthday on 31 March. Despite her advanced age, Annamah or affectionately known as Patti Annamah (a term used by Indians to address their grandmothers), is still actively contributing to society.
Her son, M. Subramaniam, 73, told BERNAMA that the villagers still come to Annamah for medical advice and her wisdom in longevity. Besides, herbal medicine, the villagers also used to seek her services in midwifery, reflexology and tattooing. The beloved grandma currently resides in Batu Gajah, Perak with her four children, 17 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Born and raised in Thachambadi, Tamil Nadu, Annamah brought along her knowledge and wealth of experience in Tamil Siddha traditional herbs when she migrated to Malaya before World War II began.
Subramanian said her secret to longevity included fasting, meditation and her homegrown herbs. Annamah is currently wheelchair-bound and blind in her left eye but she still converses jovially in both Tamil and Malay and her memory of the olden days is still remarkable.
“She’s very consistent with her routine to maintain her health. She also used to fast every Monday as a detox but stopped the practice around 15 years ago.”
Annamah’s grandson S. Ezhilan, 41, said the traditional herbs and medications have been repackaged into health products and are readily available in markets. Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) chief operating officer Christopher Wong awarded Annamah the certificate of being the oldest woman in Malaysia in conjunction with her birthday. He also added that she’s also currently the oldest Malaysian alive.
Here’s wishing Annamah Patti the happiest birthday and hopefully many more years of breaking records!
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