Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi made an unscheduled appearance at the Dewan Rakyat today to thank parliamentarians for their messages of condolence on the death of his wife Endon Mahmood last Thursday.

Winding up a motion moved by his deputy Najib Abdul Razak this morning, he shared personal memories of Endon, 64, who lost a protracted battle with breast cancer.

Describing Endon as "compassionate", the sombre premier paused before saying she was a "sweetheart and always helpful". He asked for forgiveness on her behalf if she had offended anyone.

Abdullah, who arrived in the House at 10.50am to follow the debate, said he was moved by the support he had received and the condolence messages sent to his family.

"I am very touched because this is the first time a motion like this has been tabled to the Dewan Rakyat," he said in a low voice.

In his 10-minute speech, he said he did not know it had been tabled until he went to his office this morning.

The motion, seconded by MIC president S Samy Vellu and 15 MPs representing various political parties, generated debate for about an hour.

Among those who paid tribute to Endon included MCA deputy president Chan Kong Choy, Backbenchers Club head Shahrir Abdul Samad and Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang.

Abdullah further said he would continue the projects Endon had initiated, saying this was in public interest.

Acknowledging that it is expensive to treat cancer, he said the government would take steps to reduce the cost of medicines and treatment.

"We hope the rakyat can get these at a lower price. Let's work towards to keep the cost as low as possible. Cancer treatment should not be just for those who can afford it. Even those who can't should be entitled to the same treatment," he added.