Dr Mahathir Mohamad was among the first to arrive at the administrative capital to pay his last respects to Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's wife, Endon Mahmood.

According to a report, Mahathir, the former prime minister, began reciting verses from the Quran as soon as he arrived at the official residence.

Abdullah had succeeded Mahathir in late 2003.

Reports also stated Parliament was adjourned until Monday as a mark of respect and that the government has also canceled all official functions for today.

Endon, 64, had passed away at 7.55 am after a long bout with cancer.

Bumper-to-bumper traffic

According to malaysiakini's reporters at Putrajaya, thousands of cars have been pouring into the administrative capital since the news of her demise broke.

There is a bumper-to-bumper congestion along the road leading to the premier's residence, where the public will be allowed to pay their last respects until 4pm.

Both sides of the road are littered with parked vehicles and due to this, many are forced to park some distance away and proceed on foot.

Endon's remains will be later taken to a nearby mosque for prayers before being buried in a Muslim cemetery in Putrajaya.

Photo Gallery - Last respects