Mahathir Mohamad
Prime Minister of Malaysia (1981–2003, 2018–2020) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mahathir bin Mohamad (Jawi: محاضر بن محمد;[1] IPA: [mahaðɪ(r) bɪn mohamad]; born 10 July 1925) is a Malaysian politician, author, and physician who was the fourth and seventh prime minister of Malaysia from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020. He was the country's longest-serving prime minister, serving for a cumulative total of 24 years. His political career has spanned more than 75 years, from joining protests opposing citizenship policies for non-Malays in the Malayan Union in the 1940s to forming the Gerakan Tanah Air coalition in 2022. Mahathir was granted the soubriquet "Father of Modernisation" ("Bapa Pemodenan") for his pivotal role in transforming the economy and infrastructure.[2] At the age of 99, he is currently the oldest living former Malaysian prime minister.[3]
Mahathir Mohamad | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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محاضر محمد | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
.jpg) Mahathir in 2018 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4th & 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| In office 10 May 2018 – 24 February 2020 Interim: 24 February – 1 March 2020 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Monarchs | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Deputy | Wan Azizah Wan Ismail | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preceded by | Najib Razak | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Succeeded by | Muhyiddin Yassin | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| In office 16 July 1981 – 31 October 2003 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Deputy | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Preceded by | Hussein Onn | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Succeeded by | Abdullah Ahmad Badawi | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Ministerial roles | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1974–1978 | Minister of Education | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1976–1981 | Deputy Prime Minister | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1978–1981 | Minister of Trade and Industry | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1981–1986 | Minister of Defence | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1986–1999 | Minister of Home Affairs | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1998–1999 | Minister of Finance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2001–2003 | Minister of Finance | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2020 | Acting Minister of Education | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other roles | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2003 | Secretary-General of the Non-Aligned Movement | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Personal details | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Born | Mahathir bin Mohamad 10 July 1925 Alor Setar, Kedah, Unfederated Malay States | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Citizenship | Malaysia | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Spouse | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Children | 7 (including Marina, Mokhzani and Mukhriz) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Parents |
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| Relatives | Ismail Mohamed Ali (brother-in-law) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Residence(s) | No. 58, Mines Resort City, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, Malaysia | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Education | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Occupation |
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| Awards | Full list | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Website | thechedet | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Born and raised in Alor Setar, Kedah, Mahathir excelled at school and became a physician. He became active in UMNO before entering the parliament of Malaysia in 1964 as the Member of Parliament for Kota Setar Selatan, serving until 1969 amid losing his seat, subsequently falling out with Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman and being expelled from UMNO. In 1970, he released the book The Malay Dilemma. When Tunku resigned, Mahathir re-entered UMNO and parliament through Kubang Pasu constituency, and was promoted to Minister of Education from 1974 to 1978 and Minister of Trade and Industry from 1978 to 1981. He became deputy prime minister in 1976 and in other cabinet before being sworn in as prime minister in 1981.
During Mahathir's first tenure, Malaysia underwent modernization and economic growth, and his government initiated widespread industry privatisation and a series of bold infrastructure projects. Mahathir was a dominant political figure, winning five consecutive general elections and fending off several rivals for UMNO's leadership. He centralised power through undermining judicial independence and supporting a constitutional amendment to remove legal immunity for royalty. He continued pro-bumiputera policies, and oversaw Malaysia's relatively fast recovery from the 1997 Asian financial crisis. In 1987, he detained various activists and religious figures under Operation Lalang, and in 1998 had his deputy Anwar Ibrahim arrested. As prime minister, he was an advocate of Asian values and development models, and was particularly prominent across the Muslim world.
Mahathir resigned in 2003 after 22 years in office, but remained politically influential and was critical of his successors. He quit UMNO over the 1MDB corruption scandal in 2016, joining BERSATU and leading the Pakatan Harapan opposition coalition to victory in the 2018 general election.[4][5] During a second tenure as prime minister, he pledged to investigate the 1MDB scandal, combat corruption, and cut spending on large infrastructure projects. He also secured the pardon and release of Anwar Ibrahim.[6] Mahathir resigned in 2020 amidst a political crisis. Despite losing his parliamentary seat in the 2022 general election, he remained active in politics and shifted party affiliation several times. In 2019, Time magazine listed him as one of the world's 100 most influential people.[7]
Mahathir's political views have shifted during his life, and are shaped by his Malay nationalism and Islamic religious beliefs.
Early life and education
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Mahathir was born at his parents' home in a poor neighbourhood at Lorong Kilang Ais, Alor Setar, in the capital of the Malay sultanate of Kedah under a British protectorate, on 10 July 1925.[8][note 2] He was the first prime minister that was not born into the aristocracy or a prominent religious or political family.[9][10] Mahathir's mother, Wan Tempawan Wan Hanapi, was a Malay from Kedah. His father, Mohamad Iskandar, was from Penang of Malay and Indian descent.[11] Mahathir's paternal grandfather had come from Kerala, British India but many claim that Mahathir's paternal grandfather had come from Satkania Upazila, Chittagong, British India (present part of Bangladesh).[12]
Mohamad Iskandar was the principal of an English-medium secondary school, whose lower-middle-class status meant his daughters were unable to enrol in a secondary school. Wan Tempawan had only distant relations to members of Kedah's royalty. Both had been married previously. Mahathir was born with six half-siblings and two full-siblings.[13] His childhood home, with a single shared bedroom and no electricity supply, was later converted to a tourist attraction and opened to the public.[14][15] During his childhood, Mahathir enjoyed playing snakes and ladders and demonstrated multiple creative talents, including playing the trumpet, interior decorating, and engaging in crafts and carpentry work.[16] He once shared that he was bullied in his youth, recalling how he sold balloons for a small profit but was forced by a stronger peer to use his earnings to buy food for him.[17]
Mahathir began his education at Seberang Perak Malay Boys School, Alor Setar, Kedah in 1930.[15] Mahathir was a hard-working student. Discipline imposed by his father motivated him to study, and he showed little interest in sports. Having become fluent in English well ahead of his primary school peers, including editing the English student newspaper and winning a series of language awards,[18] he won a position in a selective English-medium secondary school Government English School in 1933.[15][19] With schools closed during the Japanese occupation of Malaya in World War II, he started a small business at Pekan Rabu, selling coffee and snacks such as pisang goreng (banana fritters).[8] Even after becoming Prime Minister, Mahathir continued to visit Pekan Rabu whenever he traveled to Alor Setar.[20]
After the war, Mahathir graduated from secondary school with the highest rank and enrolled to study medicine at the King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore.[21] Mahathir studied medicine at what was then called University of Malaya, later renamed University of Singapore.[22] When the university granted him an honorary degree in November 2018, he said "I will always value my stay in Singapore for nearly six years."[23] During his college years, Mahathir developed a passion for driving, often traveling long distances, including from Singapore to his hometown in Alor Setar, in his convertible.[24] In 1947, Mahathir, writing under the pen name 'Che Det' in The Sunday Times, published an article titled Malay Women Make Their Own Freedom, in which he discussed the struggle of Malay women in the post-war period and stated, "It is up to the men and especially the fathers, to realise that they can no longer confine their womenfolk to the kitchen."[16]
Medical career (1953–1959)
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After graduating in 1953 from Universiti Malaya in Singapore, Mahathir began his housemanship at Penang General Hospital.[25] In 1954, he was sent to Alor Setar General Hospital before being posted to government clinics in Langkawi, Jitra, and Perlis.[25] During his time in Langkawi in 1955, Mahathir was the island’s first stationed doctor, witnessing its underdeveloped state—a memory that later influenced his efforts to transform it into a major tourist destination when he became Prime Minister.[25] Reflecting on his early career, Mahathir said he prioritized work over salary, starting with RM400 as a medical officer before a promotion raised it to RM770.[26] He then resigned to open his private practice, named "Maha Klinik" (Maha Clinic),[15] while his wife worked as a government doctor for 25 years. Maha Klinik was the first privately owned clinic established by a Malay in Malaysia.[27]
Mahathir acquired the reputation of being a caring doctor, willing to make house calls at any hour, trudging across rice fields in the dark to treat patients. If they could not afford his fee, they settled by installments or paid what they had. He was the town's first Malay physician and a successful one. He built a large house and employed a Chinese man to chauffeur him in his Pontiac Catalina (most chauffeurs at the time were Malay).[28][29] Mahathir and Siti Hasmah were also involved in welfare and public health activities. He served as President of the Kedah Tuberculosis Association, visiting Indian workers on rubber plantations to treat the disease, while she volunteered in the Kedah Family Planning Association.[30] With the money from his medical practice, Mahathir indulged in his entrepreneurial streak and invested in property development, tin mining, a franchised petrol station, and a shop to do quick printing–sometimes to rescue Malay businessmen in trouble. He helped found the Malay Chamber of Commerce and served as its director.[31]
Early political career (1959–1970)
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After World War II ended and the Japanese withdrew, the British grouped the Malay states and the Straits Settlements into the Malayan Union, and granted citizenship to non-Malays. This caused major backlash from Malays and a wave of Malay nationalism swept across the country. Mahathir became politically activated by these changes, joining protests and activism against the new citizenship policies.[32] Mahathir later argued for affirmative action for Malays at medical college. While at college, he contributed to The Straits Times under the pseudonym "C.H.E. Det" and a student journal, in which he fiercely promoted Malay rights, such as calling for the restoration of Malay as an official language.[33] While practising as a physician in Alor Setar, Mahathir became active in UMNO. His earliest political involvement was in the Kampung Charok Kudong Umno branch, where he made his debut in politics.[34] By the time of the first general election for the independent state of Malaya in 1959, he was the chairman of the party in Kedah.[35]
Despite his prominence in UMNO, Mahathir was not a candidate in the 1959 election, ruling himself out following a disagreement with then Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman. Their relationship had been strained since Mahathir had criticised Tunku's agreement to retain British and Commonwealth forces in Malaya after independence. Tunku opposed Mahathir's plans to introduce minimum educational qualifications for UMNO candidates. For Mahathir, this was a significant enough slight to delay his entry into national politics in protest. He contested in the following general election in 1964, and was elected as the federal parliamentarian for the Alor Setar-based seat of Kota Setar Selatan.[36]
Elected to parliament in a volatile political period, Mahathir, as a backbencher, launched himself into the main conflict of the day: Singapore's future, with its large and economically powerful ethnic Chinese population, as a state of Malaysia.[clarification needed] He vociferously attacked Singapore's dominant People's Action Party for being "pro-Chinese" and "anti-Malay" and called its leader, Lee Kuan Yew, "arrogant".[clarification needed] Singapore was expelled from Malaysia in Mahathir's first full year in parliament.[36][37] In 1965, Mahathir stated in Parliament that Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which grants special rights to Malays, was a source of shame for the community and would eventually be abolished.[38] Despite Mahathir's prominence, he lost his seat in the 1969 election, defeated by Yusof Rawa of the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS).[39][40] Mahathir attributed the loss of his seat to ethnic Chinese voters switching support from UMNO to PAS. Being a Malay-dominated seat, only the two major Malay parties fielded candidates, leaving Chinese voters to choose between the Malay-centric UMNO and the Islamist PAS.[41]
Large government losses in the election were followed by the race riots of 13 May 1969. Hundreds of people were killed in clashes between Malays and Chinese. In 1968, Mahathir had expressed concern over escalating racial tensions in two newspaper articles, and feared preventative measures would be needed to avoid violence. Outside parliament, he openly criticised the government, also sending an open dissenting letter to Tunku for failing to uphold Malay interests and calling for his resignation.[42] By the end of the year, Mahathir was fired from UMNO's Supreme Council and expelled from the party. Tunku had to be persuaded not to have him arrested.[40][41]
Expelled from UMNO, Mahathir wrote his first book, The Malay Dilemma, in which he set out his vision for the Malay community. The book argued that a balance had to be achieved between government support for Malays, so that their economic interests would not be dominated by the Chinese, and exposing Malays to sufficient competition. Mahathir saw Malays as typically avoiding hard work and failing to "appreciate the real value of money and property", and hoped this balance would rectify this.[43] Mahathir criticised Tunku's government in the book, which led to it being banned in Malaysia.[44] The ban was only lifted in 1981 under Mahathir's premiership.[40][45]
Rise to prominence (1970–1976)
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In 1971, Mahathir announced his plan to rejoin UMNO, stating he would make a formal statement at an appropriate time;[46] that same year, he also met Prime Minister Abdul Razak Hussein during a visit to Morib.[47] Mahathir rejoined UMNO on 7 March 1972.[48][49] Recognizing his potential and sharp political acumen, Razak appointed Mahathir as a Senator for Kedah in 1973.[50] Around the same time, Mahathir also became the chairman of Food Industries of Malaysia (FIMA) Sdn. Bhd.[51][52] In January 1973, as chairman of the FIMA, Mahathir visited a government factory in Pekan Nanas.[53] He faced peaceful protests from over 200 workers demanding better working conditions and wage improvements. After Mahathir spoke to the workers and promised to review their grievances, they dispersed peacefully.[53] He remained chairman of FIMA until 1981, when he became Prime Minister and was succeeded by Basir Ismail.[54]
Mahathir rose quickly in the Abdul Razak government, returning to UMNO's Supreme Council in 1973. He returned to the House of Representatives in the 1974 election, winning the Kedah-based seat of Kubang Pasu unopposed.[40] He was appointed to Cabinet in September 1974 as the Minister for Education.[55] During his tenure, Mahathir rolled out a new school curriculum for both primary and secondary schools, designed to provide holistic education and cultivate well-rounded individuals.[56] Around this time, he also ceased his private medical practice.[57]
In 1975, Mahathir ran for one of the three vice-presidencies of UMNO. The contest was regarded as a struggle for the party's leadership succession, as the health of Abdul Razak and his deputy, Hussein Onn, waned. Each of Abdul Razak's preferred candidates was elected: former Chief Minister of Melaka, Ghafar Baba; Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, a wealthy businessman and member of Kelantan's royal family; and Mahathir. When Razak died the following year, Hussein, as his successor, had to choose between the three men, alongside the Minister of Home Affairs Ghazali Shafie, to be deputy prime minister.[58][59] Mahathir's rivals had significant political liabilities: Ghazali, having been defeated by others for the vice-presidency, lacked the support of UMNO members; Ghafar had no higher education and was not fluent in English; and Razaleigh was young, inexperienced, and unmarried. Despite their lack of a close relationship, Hussein eventually appointed Mahathir as his deputy.[citation needed]
Deputy prime minister (1976–1981)
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After six weeks of indecision, Mahathir was appointed deputy prime minister on 5 March 1976.[60] Several political figures praised his appointment, recognizing his proven ability and experience.[61] The appointment meant that Mahathir was the anointed successor to the prime ministership.[58][59] In October, Mahathir was appointed to lead a cabinet committee to review the Petroleum Development Act.[62] To address the growing drug problem, Mahathir launched a nationwide anti-drug campaign in 1978 and announced plans to build a large rehabilitation center on Pisang Island, Johor.[63] He later warned that if the issue was not addressed, drug abuse could lead to the destruction of the nation.[64]
Mahathir is regarded as having been a successful Minister for Education and then Minister for Trade and Industry (1978–81).[65][66] In the latter post, he implemented a "heavy industries policy", establishing a HICOM, a government-controlled corporation, to invest in the long-term development of manufacturing sectors such as an indigenous car industry.[67] He spent much of his time in the ministry promoting Malaysia through overseas visits.[68] Besides this, as UMNO deputy president, he played a key role in coordinating among the ten component parties of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.[69] In the 1978 general election, Mahathir served as BN's election director for the state of Perak.[70]
In September 1978, Mahathir launched the Central Unit of the Federal Industrial Development Authority, a streamlined "one-stop agency" aimed at simplifying the application process for licences, permits, and facilities.[71] Later that month, he led a 31-member trade delegation on a 20-day tour to the United States, aiming to attract American investors by highlighting opportunities in Malaysia, including tax exemptions and other incentives.[72] In June 1979, Mahathir led a 23-member delegation to Pyongyang to sign Malaysia's first trade agreement with North Korea, aimed at exploring opportunities to increase imports of North Korean products.[73] During the visit, he also met with North Korea's supreme leader, Kim Il Sung.[74] In August, Mahathir reported that total approved capital investment in Malaysian companies for 1978 had increased by 38.6 per cent from the previous year, rising from US$441.3 million in 1977 to US$611.4 million; the number of approved projects also increased from 400 to 428, and the number of approved projects for expansion grew from 103 in 1976 and 150 in 1977 to 190 in 1978.[75] In December, Mahathir launched the Manpower Development Board to improve manpower training and to help make the 1980s a decade of resource-based industries.[76]
In 1981, facing health issues and advancing age, Hussein Onn decided to step down, paving the way for Mahathir to take over.[77] In his first speech as UMNO president, Mahathir said that Malaysia and the majority Malays had a bright future, but achieving it required a just, strong, and stable government.[78] A few days before being sworn in, Mahathir told Bernama that there would be no major changes in Malaysia's policies, particularly in foreign affairs, trade, and education, while also emphasizing Islam's continued prominence as the official religion.[79][80]
First term as prime minister (1981–2003)
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First 100 days
Mahathir was sworn in as Prime Minister on 16 July 1981 at the age of 56,[81] making history as the first commoner to hold the office.[82] The swearing-in ceremony, which took 10 minutes, was witnessed by all Cabinet ministers except for Foreign Minister Tengku Ahmad Rithauddeen Ismail, who was in New York.[83] He said effective implementation of the economic programme and strengthening of relations with the neighbouring Asean countries would be the priority items in his domestic and foreign policies.[84] Two days after his appointment, Mahathir announced a cabinet reshuffle, with notable changes including the appointment of Musa Hitam as Deputy Prime Minister.[85]
At his first Cabinet meeting on 23 July, Mahathir announced that the government had chosen the contractor and decided on a concrete girder type design for the long-planned Penang Bridge project.[86] Shortly after taking office, he freed 21 political prisoners, including Kassim Ahmad, chairman of the opposition Malaysian People's Socialist Party, and two members of parliament from the Democratic Action Party, while also lifting the ban on his book The Malay Dilemma.[87]
Mahathir implemented a new initiative to promote punctuality in the government by introducing a clock-in system for all ministers and senior officials. The system required even top leaders to "punch" in, setting an example for the rest of the civil service.[88] His policy quickly showed results, reducing tardiness among civil servants and easing traffic jams in Kuala Lumpur as workers began their journeys earlier to avoid penalties for being late to government offices.[89] Mahathir later said he introduced the system because he noticed then that some civil servants left the office at 3pm.[90]
Throughout August, he welcomed Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang[91] and made his first official visits to Indonesia[92] and Thailand.[93] Zhao assured Mahathir that China had made efforts to distance itself from the Communist Party of Malaya, and Mahathir responded that Malaysia would only be fully satisfied if China severed all ties with the CPM.[94] On 29 August, The Straits Times commented that in just six weeks, Mahathir had shown he meant business through bold actions and rapid reforms, with his hyperactive movements generating almost daily headlines in the local press.[95] Meanwhile, Mahathir fell ill with an upset stomach during an open-air rally in Alor Star, and had to cut short his speech;[96] this also prompted him to leave for a two-week vacation in Spain and Portugal with his family starting from September 1, during which Musa Hitam acted as Prime Minister.[97]
In September, during a meeting with Iranian Parliament Speaker Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, Mahathir offered Malaysia's assistance for Iran's development programme, pledged to strengthen economic and trade cooperation, and reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to helping resolve the Iran-Iraq conflict.[98] Meanwhile, Mahathir announced that he would not attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Melbourne, citing heavy workload in Malaysia and criticising the Commonwealth for producing "too much talk and very little results.[99] He approved a secretive stock market operation known as the "Dawn Raid" on the London Stock Exchange, enabling Malaysian agency Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) to regain majority control of Guthrie, a major British plantation company.[100]
On 23 October, as Mahathir was nearing his first 100 days as Prime Minister, Finance Minister Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah introduced a budget focused on tax cuts, inflation control, and encouraging savings and tourism.[101] Mahathir believed that the removal of various taxes under the 1982 Budget would stimulate Malaysia's commercial sector and strengthen its tourism industry.[102]
Domestic affairs
Mahathir launched the 'Bersih, Cekap & Amanah' campaign to improve government efficiency and combat corruption.[103]
On 31 December 1981, Mahathir oversaw the introduction of Malaysian Standard Time, aligning the country’s time zones and aiding regional economic integration.[104] Mahathir's administration also secured a resounding victory in the 1982 general election, further solidifying UMNO’s dominance.[105]
Through these efforts, Mahathir fostered significant national development but also faced challenges with Malaysia’s royalty, especially regarding constitutional amendments aimed at limiting royal powers.[106] Following a 1992 assault incident involving Iskandar of Johor, Mahathir led constitutional amendments that removed royal immunity from legal prosecution. Further reforms in 1994 curtailed the rulers’ power to block legislation. This helped to ensure a balance between royal prerogative and the prime minister's authority.[107]
Mahathir suffered a heart attack in 1989 but chose to undergo treatment locally, later leading to the establishment of the National Heart Institute.[108][109] He recovered in time to lead Barisan Nasional to victory in the 1990 general election, although opposition gains in Kelantan signaled growing discontent.[110][111] In 1989, Mahathir oversaw peace talks with the Communist Party of Malaya, resulting in the Hat Yai Agreement that ended the decades-long conflict.[112][113]
In 1997, Mahathir named the Malaysian flag the Jalur Gemilang, or Stripes of Glory (sometimes translated as Stripes of Excellence) on the occasion of the country's 40th independence celebration.[114]
Economic policy
In terms of economic policy, Mahathir embraced privatisation and the development of an industrial base, leading to the establishment of Proton and other initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign capital.[115]
With the expiry of the New Economic Policy in 1990, Mahathir introduced his long-term economic vision for Malaysia. In 1991, he launched Vision 2020, aiming to make Malaysia a fully developed nation by 2020 through sustained growth of around seven percent GDP annually.[116][117] Vision 2020 was supported by the National Development Policy (NDP), which continued affirmative action while opening some programs to non-Bumiputera groups.[118] The policy prioritized balanced growth and regional equity.[119]
Under the NDP, poverty fell below nine percent by 1995, and income inequality narrowed.[120] Mahathir also promoted national unity through the "Bangsa Malaysia" concept[121] and slogans like Malaysia Boleh.[122] Pro-business reforms, including tax cuts and financial liberalization, attracted foreign investment and propelled annual growth above nine percent until 1998.[123] Malaysia became the world’s 17th largest trading nation.[124] The ruling coalition won a larger majority in the 1995 election.[125]
Mahathir oversaw ambitious infrastructure projects, including the Multimedia Super Corridor and the new administrative capital, Putrajaya. He promoted international events such as the Formula One Grand Prix and founded institutions like the National Planetarium and Malaysia’s first satellite program (MEASAT-1 and -2).[126] He also advanced higher education, visiting MIT in 1995 to establish the Malaysia University of Science and Technology.[127] His administration responded to the 1997 Southeast Asian haze crisis with a cross-border firefighting initiative.[128]
The 1997 Asian financial crisis severely impacted Malaysia, as the ringgit collapsed, foreign investors pulled out, and the stock market plunged. Initial IMF-advised austerity measures worsened the downturn. In 1998, Mahathir rejected IMF prescriptions and implemented controversial capital controls: pegging the ringgit to the US dollar, banning offshore trading, and limiting capital outflows.[129][130] These unorthodox measures, including launching the National Higher Education Fund (PTPTN), helped Malaysia recover more quickly than its neighbours.[129][131] GDP growth rebounded to 5.4% in 1999[132] and 8.5% in 2000.[133] Mahathir later described the currency peg as a decision that felt like "putting his head on the chopping block".[134]
Drug policy
Upon assuming office as Prime Minister, Mahathir identified drug abuse as the primary public enemy of the nation.[135] Shortly after taking office, he stressed that the misuse and abuse of drugs were socially destructive, and that governments bore a heavy responsibility to prevent drug abuse from harming societies and leading the younger generation into irresponsibility and social deviance.[136]
Malaysia introduced the death penalty for offences such as murder and drug trafficking in 1975, initially as a discretionary punishment.[137] During Mahathir's administration, the death penalty for drug trafficking was made mandatory in 1983, reflecting the government's hardline stance against drug-related crimes at the time.[137] The media has described Malaysia as having some of the world's toughest drug laws, including a mandatory death penalty for those convicted of trafficking 15 grams (0.5 oz) or more of heroin or morphine, 1,000 grams (2.2 lbs) of opium, or 400 grams (14 oz) of cannabis.[138]
Under Mahathir's leadership, the government also implemented other anti-drug measures, including strengthening border control and launching large-scale public education campaigns. Anti-drug stories appeared regularly in the newspapers, and public service announcements became a common feature on television. The establishment of the Anti-Narcotics Committee and its executive arm, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force, in 1983 was a key part of these efforts. The committee, chaired by the Prime Minister and accountable to the National Security Council, was empowered by legislation passed in 1985, which allowed the government to detain suspected drug syndicate leaders without trial.[139]
According to data from Amnesty International, Malaysian authorities executed over 120 prisoners convicted of capital drug offenses between 1983 and 1992, with at least 39 executions in 1992, the highest annual total ever recorded by Amnesty International in Malaysia.[140] Notable cases include the execution of Kevin Barlow and Brian Chambers, two Australian nationals in 1986, who became the first Westerners to be sentenced to death in Malaysia. Last-minute appeals for clemency from Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Amnesty International were unsuccessful, with Hawke condemning the hangings as "barbaric", and Mahathir responding, "You should tell that to the drug traffickers".[141] In May 1990, eight Hong Kong citizens were hanged in Malaysia, marking the largest mass execution for drug offenses in the country's history.[142]
Due to the anti-drug policies, Malaysia's drug-related incidents decreased from 14,624 cases in 1983 to 7,596 cases in 1987, and the number of foreign nationals apprehended for drug trafficking also declined.[143] In 1987, Mahathir was elected as the President of the International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,[144] where he chaired the plenary session.[145] During the discussions on two working papers, one on guidelines for combating the drug menace and the other on the declaration against drugs, 138 nations provided overwhelming support.[145]
1987 UMNO leadership election
In 1987, Mahathir faced a serious challenge to his leadership when Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah contested the UMNO presidency, supported by former deputy Musa Hitam. Mahathir, backed by most party elites and the media, narrowly retained his position. Razaleigh’s faction disputed the outcome, leading to legal battles that resulted in the courts declaring UMNO illegal in 1988.[146][147] Mahathir quickly formed UMNO Baru, sidelining his rivals who later formed Semangat 46 under Razaleigh.[148]
Retire and succession
In May and June 2002, Mahathir made historic visits to the United States and the Vatican, respectively.[149][150] On 22 June 2002, Mahathir unexpectedly announced his resignation during the UMNO general assembly.[151] However, the decision was retracted less than an hour later following emotional appeals from his colleagues and supporters.[151] On 26 June, the secretary-general of UMNO, Mohd Khalil Yaakob, announced that Mahathir’s resignation would take effect only after the Organisation of Islamic Conference Summit in Kuala Lumpur in October 2003,[152] stating that the reins of government would then pass to his deputy, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.[153]
Retirement and post-first term premiership (2003–2015)
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On his retirement, Mahathir was named a Grand Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm, the highest honor in Malaysia, allowing him to adopt the title of "Tun".[154][155] Under Mahathir's leadership, Malaysia was transformed into an industrialising nation.[156] He pledged to leave politics "completely", rejecting an emeritus role in Abdullah's cabinet.[157] Abdullah immediately made his mark as a quieter and less adversarial premier. With stronger religious credentials than Mahathir, he beat back PAS's surge in the 1999 election and lead the Barisan Nasional in the 2004 election to its biggest win ever, taking 199 of 219 parliamentary seats.[158] On 23 October, Mingguan Malaysia published an exclusive interview with Mahathir, marking his first since retiring as Prime Minister.[159]
After retiring, Mahathir maintained a busy schedule,[160] engaging in various activities and speaking engagements both locally and internationally.[161] He emphasized the importance of staying active, stating, "Never retire. You have to work. When you work, it will keep you alive."[160] His office at the Perdana Leadership Foundation and residence at the Mines Resort City, as well as expenses for meal allowances, escorts, bodyguards, a medical officer, and a special assistant during overseas trips, are funded by the government under the Member of Parliament (Remuneration) Act 1980 (Act 237).[162]
Mahathir was the CEO and Chairman, and hence a senior adviser, for many flagship Malaysian companies such as Proton, Perdana Leadership Foundation and Malaysia's government-owned oil and gas company Petronas.[163] He did not receive any remuneration for his advisory positions.[164] He was also made Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP) Chancellor in 2004, succeeding the late Raja Mohar Raja Badiozaman.[165] On 15 June of the same year, Mahathir was appointed chairman of the NAM Business Council International Advisory Panel.[166] In 2006, Mahathir co-founded The Loaf bakery with Motoko Resources Sdn Bhd, opening its first store in Telaga Harbor, Langkawi, before expanding to 12 outlets in locations such as KLCC, Pavilion, Sogo, and Empire Shopping Gallery.[167] He also served as The Loaf’s chairman.[168]
Despite his business ventures, Mahathir remained an influential figure, and his views on national matters continued to draw attention. Mahathir and Abdullah had a major fallout over Proton in 2005. While Abdullah was attempting to reform the company and implemented high import tariffs on foreign cars, Mahathir accused Abdullah's government of cronyism in relation to import licences.[169] Proton's chief executive, a Mahathir ally, had been sacked by the company's board. With Abdullah's blessing, Proton then sold one of its prise assets, the motorcycle company MV Agusta, which was bought on Mahathir's advice.[170]
Mahathir criticised the awarding of import permits for foreign cars, which he claimed were causing Proton's domestic sales to suffer,[171] and attacked Abdullah for cancelling the construction of a second causeway between Malaysia and Singapore.[172]
Mahathir complained that his views were not getting sufficient airing by the Malaysian press.[173] In response, he began writing a column for Malaysiakini and starting his own blog.[174] He unsuccessfully sought election from his local party division to be a delegate to UMNO's general assembly in 2006, where he planned to initiate a challenge to Abdullah's leadership.[175] Mahathir had previously missed the Umno General Assembly twice since 2006 for health reasons.[176][177] After the 2008 election, in which UMNO lost its two-thirds majority in parliament, Mahathir resigned from the party.[178] When Abdullah was replaced by his deputy Najib Razak in 2009, Mahathir re-joined the party. When Abdullah was replaced by his deputy Najib Razak in 2009, Mahathir re-joined the party[179] and urged all former members to follow his move.[180] Before the 2013 general election, Mahathir promised to keep the government in check and ensure it fulfilled its manifesto promises, vowing to protest and fight against it if it failed.[181]
Mahathir established the Kuala Lumpur Initiative to Criminalise War Forum in an effort to end war globally,[182] as well as the Kuala Lumpur War Crimes Commission to investigate the activities of the United States, Israel and its allies in Iraq, Lebanon and the Palestinian territories.[183] In March 2015, Mahathir attended a conference where he stated his belief in a "New World Order", where an elite would attempt rule the planet in a single world government, and exterminate billions of humans.[184][185]
Return to politics (2015–2018)
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By 2015, even at 90 years old, Mahathir remained sharp and combative.[186] He repeatedly called for prime minister Najib Razak to resign over the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) corruption scandal.[187][188] On 30 August 2015, he and Siti Hasmah attended the Bersih 4 rally, a mass protest organised in response to the scandal.[189] In 2016, Mahathir chaired the Malaysian Citizens' Declaration, which brought together several political figures and non-governmental organisations in calling for Najib's resignation.[190][191] In this declaration, Mahathir listed 37 points.[192] Later, the Citizens' Declaration reached one million signatures in May of the same year.[193] In the 2016 Sungai Besar by-election, he supported Amanah and other Pakatan Harapan leaders, lending his influence to the opposition coalition.[194]
Mahathir left UMNO in 2016, and formed Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU).[195][196] The new party was officially registered on 9 September 2016, and Mahathir became its chairman.[197] By 2017, he had officially joined the opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan. Negotiations then took place between different factions of the coalition for Mahathir to become the chairman and prime ministerial candidate.[198] He assumed the position of chairman on 14 July 2017, despite reservations from supporters of Anwar Ibrahim, who could not contest in polls himself while imprisoned.[199][200]
In 2016, Mahathir had his police outriders withdrawn after his privileges were revoked due to his participation in anti-government events.[201] A year later, in 2017, the government further withdrew his personal bodyguard service provided by the police Special Action Unit (UTK), following the earlier termination of his cook and office assistant’s contracts.[202] This decision by the government also drew criticism from various parties.[203][204] However, Inspector-General of Police Mohamad Fuzi Harun denied this, stating that only ordinary police officers had been recalled, while Mahathir's bodyguard service from the elite UTK remained intact.[205] The Prime Minister’s Department also refuted this claim, stating that it was still paying for 21 staff at Mahathir’s home and office.[206]
In early 2018, Mahathir was announced as Pakatan Harapan's prime ministerial candidate for the upcoming general election. Wan Azizah, wife of his former political enemy Anwar, ran as his deputy.[207] Mahathir's election promise was to seek a pardon for Anwar, in order to allow him to take over as prime minister after an interim period.[208][209]
Second term as prime minister (2018–2020)
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Pakatan Harapan defeated Barisan Nasional in the 2018 general election.[210][211][212] Concerns for a smooth power transition emerged as Najib declared that no party had achieved a majority.[213] The National Palace of Malaysia subsequently confirmed Mahathir would be sworn in as Malaysia's seventh prime minister, refuting any claims of delaying the appointment.[214][215] Immediately after the declaration of the results, people in Kuala Lumpur expressed their joy in celebration of the historic victory.[216] Mahathir announced a two-day public holiday, adding: 'But there will be no holidays for the winners.'[217]
He became the world's oldest serving state leader (aged 92 years, 304 days at the time), and the first Malaysian prime minister not to represent UMNO.[218] Mahathir was also officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest serving prime minister.[219] His deputy, Wan Azizah became the first female deputy prime minister of Malaysia.[220]
In April 2019, Mahathir was listed among Time magazine's 100 most influential people.[221][222]
Domestic affairs
Mahathir promised to "restore the rule of law", and reopen investigations into the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal, telling the press that Najib would face consequences if found guilty of corruption.[223] Mahathir instructed the Department of Immigration to bar Najib and his wife, the notoriously extravagant Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country after they attempted to fly to Indonesia.[224]
Mahathir formed his cabinet of 29 ministers in June 2018.[225] He abolished the unpopular Goods and Services Tax, reducing it from six to zero per cent.[226] Mahathir implemented a "no gifts policy," stating that he would only accept food, flowers, and fruits, while prohibiting government officials from receiving any other gifts to prevent corruption.[227]
He also vowed to cut fiscal spending by firing thousands of civil servants, cancelling an expensive Kuala Lumpur–Singapore high-speed rail link and cutting back on large infrastructure projects initiated under Najib.[228] Malaysia's freedom of the press improved slightly under Mahathir's tenure, and the country's rank rose in the Press Freedom Index.[229] The government announced palm oil cultivation would be limited to 6.55 million hectares by 2023, and began a lobbying campaign to improve palm oil's reputation abroad.[230]
On 20 June 2018, Mahathir met the father of murdered Mongolian woman Altantuya Shaariibuu and agreed that the case of her murder should be reopened.[231][232]
A year into his term, Mahathir's approval ratings had fallen as the economy slowed and several planned reforms, such as abolishing capital punishment and the Sedition Act 1948, were not realised amid divisions in the coalition.[233] Mahathir announced the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 in October 2019, which set out for Malaysia to become a high income country by 2030.[234][235] Another priority of his administration was a more transparent approach to defence. The government prepared the country's first defence policy white paper outlining long-term plans for the country.[236]
Foreign relations
Early in his second tenure, Mahathir visited Japan and Indonesia to reaffirm good relations, and reignited a water dispute with Singapore.[237] By the end of 2018, several disputes over maritime and airspace borders with Singapore had continued.[238] Mahathir met twice with president Rodrigo Duterte in his first year in office to strengthen cooperation with the Philippines on a broad range of security, economic and political issues.[239] Mahathir again prioritised relations with Japan[240] and strengthened economic and defence ties with Russia.[241] He visited Vladivostok for a meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum in late 2019, where he cast doubt on the Joint Investigation Team's findings related to the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17.[241] Mahathir called the murder charges brought to four Russians related to the flight "ridiculous", calling it "a political issue on how to accuse Russia of wrongdoing".[242] Malaysia launched a foreign policy framework in late 2019.[243] In response to European Union regulations phasing out palm-oil based biofuels, Mahathir discussed bringing a formal complaint to the World Trade Organization or a case to the European Court of Justice with Indonesian president Joko Widodo.[244]
Mahathir condemned the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018[245] and the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani by the United States in 2020.[246]
Mahathir was supportive of the 2018–19 Korean peace process.[247][248] He also indicated that Malaysia would re-open its embassy in North Korea, which had remained closed since the 2017 assassination of Kim Jong-nam.[249]
China
Mahathir's administration committed to retaining good relations with China,[250] but promised to review all Belt and Road Initiative projects in Malaysia that were initiated by the previous government. He characterised these as "unequal treaties". His government suspended work on the East Coast Rail Link,[250][251] which recommenced after terms had been renegotiated.[252] Mahathir cancelled approximately $2.8 billion worth of deals with China Petroleum Pipeline Bureau altogether, citing high repayment costs.[251][253]
On 13 February 2020, Mahathir spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping to express solidarity and discuss cooperation in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.[254][255] Prior to this, Mahathir had expressed his hopes that 2020, the 'Year of Culture and Tourism' between Malaysia and China, would further strengthen the ties and friendship between the two nations.[256]
2020 political crisis and resignation
By late 2019, disagreements emerged within Pakatan Harapan about Mahathir's planned handover of power to Anwar Ibrahim, eventually culminating in a political crisis in 2020. Mahathir and a faction of the coalition felt that Anwar would be unable to command a parliamentary majority.[257][258] MPs supporting Anwar demanded a timeframe for Mahathir's resignation and handover of power.[257]
In February 2020, MPs opposed to Anwar taking over met and agreed to form a new government.[257][259][260][261] Anwar told the media that he had been "betrayed".[262][263] Anwar and Mahathir met to clarify the situation, where Mahathir insisted he had no involvement in a new government.[257][264][265]
Mahathir, refusing to work with UMNO leaders, submitted his resignation to the Agong, Abdullah of Pahang, on 24 February 2020.[266][267] The Agong appointed him interim prime minister until a replacement could be agreed.[268][269][270] BERSATU President Muhyiddin Yassin declared the party's withdrawal from Pakatan Harapan; Mahathir also resigned from the party in response.[257] The next day, Mahathir reported to work as usual in his new role as caretaker prime minister.[271] During his interim premiership, he introduced the 2020 Economic Stimulus Package to counter the economic impact of Covid-19,[272] based on three strategies: mitigating its impact, spurring people-centric economic growth, and promoting quality investments.[273]
On 29 February, the Agong appointed Muhyiddin prime minister, determining that he was most likely to be able to hold the support of a majority in parliament.[274] Mahathir unsuccessfully attempted to challenge this with the Agong, but eventually left the prime minister's office an hour before Muhyiddin was sworn in.[257][275]
Post-second term premiership (2020–present)
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Despite his advanced age and having stepped down as prime minister, Mahathir remains active on the international stage, frequently traveling, delivering speeches, and continuing to voice his views and influence both domestically and globally.[276] He formed the Homeland Fighter's Party (PEJUANG) in August 2020.[277] Four other MPs joined the new party, including Mahathir's son Mukhriz. The party was registered in July 2021.[278][279] In August 2021, Mahathir and other MPs protested in Merdeka Square, calling for Muhyiddin's resignation over the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, after being blocked from entering parliament by police.[280][281]
In April 2022, UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi filed a defamation lawsuit against Mahathir.[282][283][284] In June 2022, Mahathir made irrendentist comments by stating that Singapore and the Riau Islands of Indonesia was once owned by Johor, and argued the state should claim them as part of Malaysia.[285]
In September 2022, Mahathir said he was open to becoming the prime minister for a third time if there were no other suitable candidates.[286][287] Having previously said he would not defend his Langkawi parliamentary seat,[288][289] he announced he would contest the 2022 general election.[290][291] In the election on 19 November, Mahathir lost his seat and election deposit, marking his first defeat in 53 years.[292] No candidate from PEJUANG or Gerakan Tanah Air secured a seat.[293][294] He later said that his party's plans "had to be dropped" and he would shift his focus to writing about Malaysian history.[295][296]
In February 2023, Mahathir and 13 other members of PEJUANG (leaving his own son as the sole leader of that party) left the party and joined Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra).[297][298] Later in 2023, Mahathir began promoting a "Malay Proclamation", aimed at uniting Malays. He met with PAS and PN leaders to garner support for the 12-point document listing political, economic and social issues.[299][300][301] Mahathir was questioned by police over this campaign under the Malaysian Penal Code, for carrying out "activities that undermine parliamentary democracy".[302] Mahathir also left GTA, criticising the coalition for its poor performance in the election.[303] He supported Perikatan Nasional, the coalition that had ousted him in 2020, in six state elections and was named its "unofficial adviser" for the four state governments under its control.[304]
On 31 August 2024, Mahathir attended the Merdeka Day celebration in Putrajaya in his personal capacity, as he was not officially invited by the government. His presence at the event, where he was warmly received by the crowd, sparked public debate. Prominent academic Chandra Muzaffar criticized the government's decision, describing it as a breach of Malaysian etiquette and values, particularly given Mahathir’s status as the country’s longest-serving prime minister. He stated that the exclusion contradicted the principles of the Rukun Negara, which emphasize courtesy and morality, and called for a clear explanation from the government.[305]
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In February 2025, Mahathir's official Facebook account confirmed that his X account (@chedetofficial) had been hacked, resulting in a post promoting cryptocurrency, and efforts were underway to recover it.[306][307] In April 2025, following the Putra Heights pipeline fire in Subang Jaya, Mahathir visited the Incident Control Post and urged the public not to make premature accusations before the investigation was completed.[308] Shortly thereafter, he also attended the state funeral of former Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.[309]
Political positions and views
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Mahathir's political views have shifted during his lengthy career. During the 1980s and 1990s, he was a supporter of third-worldism, while during other periods he has been a proponent of "Asian values" and globalisation.[310] A Muslim thinker, he holds Islamic political views.[310] In 2002, he characterised himself as an Islamic fundamentalist.[311] Mahathir is generally respected in developing and Islamic countries,[312] particularly due to his oversight of Malaysia's economic growth and his support of liberal Muslim values.[313]
Mahathir has been described as a proponent of Malay nationalism.[310] In The Malay Dilemma, he argued that the Malay race had been marginalised, and voiced his support for affirmative action policies for them.[314] Upon his first resignation, he expressed his disappointment at the progress made towards his "principle task" of supporting the Malay race.[314] In 2021, Mahathir said he did not believe in "Ketuanan Melayu", calling it a "fantasy", and said instead that he believed in the concept of "Bangsa Malaysia",[315] but later clarified in 2023 that his vision of Bangsa Malaysia meant the assimilation of non-Malay people into Malay culture and argued against multiculturalism.[316] He has been described as anti-royalist by Libération, owing to his efforts to oppose immunity for members of Malaysia's monarchies.[317]
Mahathir is a vocal critic of neoliberalism[310] and the Western world.[318][312] In 2011, Mahathir suggested that the September 11 attacks might have been staged by the United States government.[319][320] Mahathir condemned the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1997, suggesting it be revised to place greater importance on economic growth over civil liberties.[321] In 2019, Mahathir stated that Malaysians should learn from the hard work of China’s citizens, which enabled their nation to achieve technological advancement within a few decades.[322]
Mahathir has advocated for a balance between environmental protection and natural resource use for economic growth in developing countries.[323] He referred to the outcomes of the Earth Summit as "eco-imperialism", arguing that Global North countries put an undue burden on Global South countries for environmental degradation.[324] In response to international scrutiny, he said in 2019 that linking palm oil production to deforestation was "baseless, unfair and unjustified" and that the Malaysian palm oil sector had developed sustainably.[230]
Antisemitism
We (Muslims) are actually very strong. 1.3 billion people cannot be simply wiped out. The Europeans killed 6 million Jews out of 12 million. But today the Jews rule the world by proxy. They get others to fight and die for them.
–Mahathir, 2003[325]
A strident critic of Israel, Mahathir has been accused of antisemitism throughout his political life.[326][318] In The Malay Dilemma, he wrote that "Jews are not merely hook-nosed, but understand money instinctively".[327] In August 1983, Mahathir claimed in a speech that Jews control the international media.[328] In March 1994, he banned the screening of Schindler's List on the grounds that he viewed it as anti-German, pro-Jewish propaganda.[328] During the collapse of the ringgit and the economic crisis in 1997, he made a series of remarks blaming Jews, in particular George Soros, a Jewish "agenda", and "an international Jewish conspiracy" attempting to destroy the economies of Muslim countries.[328][329][330]
During an Organization of Islamic Cooperation summit held in Kuala Lumpur in 2003, he accused Jews of "ruling the world by proxy" and getting "others to fight and die for them".[325][331] His speech was denounced by President George W. Bush.[332] In 2012, he claimed he was "glad to be labelled antisemitic".[333] In a 2018 BBC interview he repeated similar statements, as well as disputing the number of Jews killed in the Holocaust.[334] In 2019, when asked why he had previously claimed that Jews are "inclined towards money" he responded that he had Jewish friends, and that "they are not like the other Jews, that's why they are my friends."[335] Mahathir has defended his comments about Jews as an exercise of free speech, and by claiming that "the Jews do a lot of wrong things which force us to pass comment."[336][337][338]
LGBT rights
Mahathir opposes an expansion of LGBT rights in Malaysia.[339][340] In 2001, Mahathir said that any homosexual ministers from the United Kingdom would be barred from entering Malaysia.[341] During an October 2018 lecture to university students in Bangkok, Mahathir contrasted Malaysian values with those of Western nations and cited "the institution of marriage [and] the family" in his opposition to LGBT.[339]
Comment about 2020 Nice stabbing
The French in the course of their history have killed millions of people. Many were Muslims. Muslims have a right to be angry and to kill millions of French people for the massacres of the past. But by and large the Muslims have not applied the 'eye for an eye' law. Muslims don't. The French shouldn't. Instead the French should teach their people to respect other people's feeling.
–Mahathir, 2020
In the aftermath of the 2020 Nice stabbing and murder of Samuel Paty, Mahathir posted remarks on his blog. Mahathir said that the attacks were wrong and against Islam, but also argued that Muslims had a right to be angry and kill French people for past massacres committed by the French. Mahathir's post was later circulated on his Twitter account, where it was labelled for "glorifying violence".[342]
Mahathir was criticised for stoking tensions and hatred by the former Australian ambassador to France Brendan Berne, Australian prime minister Scott Morrison, and French secretary of state for digital affairs Cédric O.[343] Malaysian cleric and politician Fathul Bari Mat Jahya also condemned Mahathir's remarks.[344][345]
Mahathir responded that his comments were taken out of context and he was not "promoting massacre of the French". Facebook and Twitter later removed his posts.[346]
Personal life
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I don’t smoke, I don’t drink, and I don’t overeat. I eat just enough to keep me going. Once people hit a certain age, there’s a tendency to become overweight. Many develop a big stomach, and to feel satisfied, they eat and drink too much, which puts a strain on their heart. I’ve stayed around 62-64 kg for years, and I can still wear clothes I had made 30 years ago.
–Mahathir[347]
Mahathir follows a disciplined lifestyle. He attributes his longevity and health to self-discipline, a controlled diet, regular reading to keep his mind active, and avoiding overeating, which he believes leads to obesity and related diseases.[348] He has consistently maintained his weight at 62kg for many years.[349] His hobbies include sailing, horse riding, and carpentry, and he has built a functioning steam train and a boat.[18] An avid reader, his favorite authors are Wilbur Smith and Jeffrey Archer.[350]
Mahathir met his wife, Siti Hasmah, during their medical studies, and they married in 1956. They have four biological children—Marina, Mirzan, Mokhzani, and Mukhriz—and later adopted three more—Melinda, Maizura, and Mazhar.[351] In 2021, they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.[352] His granddaughter, Ineza, has described him as a family-oriented man who enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.[353]
Mahathir is widely known for his workaholic nature.[354] Despite his demanding schedule, he enjoys simple pleasures such as cooking and driving his family to restaurants.[355] He is also a fan of the song "My Way"[356] and owns a stable of horses, most of which were gifted to him.[357]
His childhood home in Alor Setar, named Rumah Kelahiran Mahathir Mohamad, was restored and opened to the public in 1992, showcasing personal memorabilia from his early life.[358]
Over the years, Mahathir has faced various health challenges, including heart conditions and infections, requiring multiple hospitalizations.[359] He has also been the target of security threats during his political career, though none have caused him serious harm.
Mahathir neither drinks alcohol nor smokes.[360]
Cultural depictions
Mahathir has been depicted in various cultural forms, reflecting his role in Malaysian history. In 2010, the musical Mahathir, the Musical portrayed his life from his early years to his political career, with Esma Daniel in the lead role. The production was well received and had an extended run. A sequel followed in 2011. In 2012, the play Teater Tun Siti Hasmah focused on his wife, Siti Hasmah, highlighting her career as a doctor and first lady, with Nazim Othman and Esma Daniel portraying Mahathir. A mural of Mahathir was unveiled in Alor Setar, Kedah in 2015. Internationally, a monument dedicated to Mahathir was inaugurated in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina in December 2020, created by artist Enes Sivac. The monument includes an excerpt from Mahathir's speech at the International Conference of Parliamentarians on Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Election results
| Year | Constituency | Candidate | Votes | Pct | Opponent(s) | Votes | Pct | Ballots cast | Majority | Turnout | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | P008 Kota Star Selatan | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 12,406 | 60.22% | Ahmad Shukri Abdul Shukur (PAS) | 8,196 | 39.78% | 21,440 | 4,210 | 82.8% | ||
| 1969 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 12,032 | 48.03% | Yusof Rawa (PAS) | 13,021 | 51.97% | 25,679 | 989 | 78.6% | |||
| 1974 | P004 Kubang Pasu | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | Unopposed | |||||||||
| 1978 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 18,198 | 64.64% | Halim Arshat (PAS) | 9,953 | 35.36% | 29,014 | 8,245 | 78.36% | |||
| 1982 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 24,524 | 73.67% | Yusof Rawa (PAS) | 8,763 | 26.33% | 34,340 | 15,761 | 78.79% | |||
| 1986 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 25,452 | 71.48% | Azizan Ismail (PAS) | 10,154 | 28.52% | 36,409 | 15,298 | 74.21% | |||
| 1990 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 30,681 | 78.07% | Sudin Wahab (S46) | 8,619 | 21.93% | 40,570 | 22,062 | 77.51% | |||
| 1995 | P006 Kubang Pasu | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 24,495 | 77.12% | Ahmad Mohd Alim (PAS) | 7,269 | 22.88% | 33,010 | 17,226 | 73.61% | ||
| 1999 | Mahathir Mohamad (UMNO) | 22,399 | 63.22% | Ahmad Subki Abd. Latif (PAS) | 12,261 | 34.61% | 36,106 | 10,138 | 78.62% | |||
| 2018 | P004 Langkawi | Mahathir Mohamad (BERSATU) | 18,954 | 54.90% | Nawawi Ahmad (UMNO) | 10,061 | 29.14% | 35,250 | 8,893 | 80.87% | ||
| Zubir Ahmad (PAS) | 5,512 | 15.96% | ||||||||||
| 2022 | Mahathir Mohamad (PEJUANG) | 4,566 | 9.62% | Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah (BERSATU) | 25,463 | 53.63% | 48,123 | 13,518 | 71.10% | |||
| Armishah Siradj (UMNO) | 11,945 | 25.16% | ||||||||||
| Zabidi Yahya (AMANAH) | 5,417 | 11.41% | ||||||||||
| Abd Kadir Sainudin (IND) | 89 | 0.19% | ||||||||||
Honors, awards and recognitions
Mahathir received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Royal Family Order of Brunei (1997), Order of Mubarak the Great (1997), Honorary Ph.D. in Humanities from the National University of Mongolia (1997), Honorary Ph.D. in Literature from Al-Azhar University (1998), U Thant Peace Award from the United Nations Organization (1999), Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland (2002), Russian Order of Friendship (2003), Honorary Ph.D. from Tsinghua University (2004), Honorary Ph.D. from the University of Santo Tomas (2012), Honorary Ph.D. in Laws from the National University of Singapore (2018), Japanese Order of the Paulownia Flowers (2018), Honorary Ph.D. from Qatar University (2019), Honorary Ph.D. from the International University of Japan (2019), Order of Pakistan (2019), and the Order of the Republic of Turkey (2019).
Bibliography
Books
- The Malay Dilemma (1970) ISBN 981-204-355-1
- The Challenge (1986) ISBN 967-978-091-0
- Regionalism, Globalism, and Spheres of Influence: ASEAN and the Challenge of Change into the 21st century (1989) ISBN 981-303-549-8
- Mahathir, Great Malaysian Hero (1990) ISBN 983-9683-00-4
- The Asia That Can Say No[note 3][note 4] (1994) ISBN 433-405-217-7
- The Pacific Rim in the 21st century (1995)
- The Challenges of Turmoil (1998) ISBN 967-978-652-8
- The Way Forward (1998) ISBN 0-297-84229-3
- A New Deal for Asia (1999)
- Islam & The Muslim Ummah (2001) ISBN 967-978-738-9
- Globalisation and the New Realities (2002)
- Reflections on Asia (2002) ISBN 967-978-813-X
- The Malaysian Currency Crisis: How and why it Happened (2003) ISBN 967-978-756-7
- Mahathir: 22 Years, 22 Voices (2003)[362]
- Achieving True Globalization (2004) ISBN 967-978-904-7
- Islam, Knowledge, and Other Affairs (2006) ISBN 983-3698-03-4
- Principles of Public Administration: An Introduction (2007) ISBN 978-983-195-253-5
- Chedet.com Blog Merentasi Halangan (Bilingual) (2008) ISBN 967-969-589-1
- A Doctor in the House: The Memoirs of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad[363] (2011) ISBN 9789675997228
- Doktor Umum: Memoir Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad[364][note 5] (2012) ISBN 9789674150259
- Blogging to Unblock (Book 2): A Citizen's Rights (2013) ISBN 9789679696288
- Dr. M: Apa Habaq Orang Muda? (2016) ISBN 9789671367995
- Capturing Hope: The Struggle Continues for a New Malaysia (2021)[365] ISBN 9789672923183
See also
Notes
- Disputed with Muhyiddin Yassin from 24 February to 28 May 2020
- In collaboration with Shintaro Ishihara
- This book was the BM version of his best-selling memoir, A Doctor in the House: The Memoirs of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
References
External links
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