Dr. Mahathir Mohamad: The Grand Old Man of Malaysian Politics

 

Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, often referred to as the grand old man of Malaysian politics, remains an active figure in the nation’s affairs even in his nonagenarian years. With a remarkable cumulative total of 24 years as Prime Minister, he stands as the longest-serving leader in Malaysian history. Mahathir served as the fourth Prime Minister from July 1981 to October 2003 and returned for a second term as the seventh Prime Minister from May 2018 to March 2020, making him not only Malaysia's oldest premier but also one of the oldest world leaders.

 

In the May 2018 elections, Mahathir was elected as the Member of Parliament for Langkawi, a position he has held with dedication since then.


Early Life and Medical Career

Before entering politics, Mahathir had a successful career as a physician. He trained at Singapore’s King Edward VII College of Medicine and began his medical career in government service. In 1957, he returned to his hometown of Alor Setar, Kedah, to establish his own medical practice. That same year, he married his college sweetheart, Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, who was also a fellow medical student.

Political Journey

Mahathir's political journey began at the young age of 21 when he joined the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). His political career advanced quickly, and he became a Member of Parliament in 1964. By 1974, he was appointed Minister of Education, and just four years later, he ascended to the position of Prime Minister.

Economic Impact and Achievements

Under Mahathir's leadership, Malaysia emerged as a prominent player on the global stage and was recognized as one of the Asian economic tigers in the 1990s. His achievements are numerous, with key highlights including:

- Establishment of Proton: The national car company, which bolstered Malaysia’s automotive industry.

- Economic Resilience: Successfully navigating through economic crises in 1985 and 1997, demonstrating strong leadership during turbulent times.

- Infrastructure Development: Spearheading major projects such as the North-South Expressway, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

These accomplishments and many others have earned him the title of Malaysia’s Father of Modernization (Bapa Pemodenan).

Legacy

Dr. Mahathir Mohamad's enduring influence on Malaysian politics and his remarkable contributions to the country's development have solidified his legacy as a transformative leader. Even today, his commitment to serving the nation continues to inspire many, affirming his status as a once-in-a-generation phenomenon.


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