Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today described the demise of Umno veteran Tan Sri Aishah Ghani as 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.

Earlier Najib through his Twitter said the deeds of the late Umno leader would always be remembered.