At the National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Mahathir Mohamad, the centenarian former leader of Malaysia, draws both admiration and scrutiny as he greets supporters. This moment captures the essence of a man who remains a complex and polarizing figure in the Malaysian political landscape.
Having served a staggering 24 years as prime minister, Mahathir first assumed office in 1981, where he propelled Malaysia from its reliance on traditional commodities like tin and rubber into a high-tech exporter on the global stage. His policies triggered significant economic reforms and advancements that undeniably transformed Malaysia's economic fabric.
However, Mahathir's governance has been overshadowed by accusations of authoritarianism and controversy, particularly over his harsh treatment of political adversaries such as Anwar Ibrahim, who now holds the prime ministership. His statements regarding racial and religious issues have also drawn substantial criticism, leading many to label him as an antisemite and a divisive figure.
In a recent interview, Mahathir reflects on his long career, recognizing the mixed reception of his actions. Despite a 15-year hiatus from office, he made a shocking return in 2018 at the age of 92, setting a record as the oldest sitting prime minister.
Now, at 99 years old, he continues to be a prominent figure in Malaysian society, eliciting strong emotions from fans and critics alike. As he assesses his legacy, Mahathir's contributions to the nation remain significant and contentious, igniting passionate debate about his impact on Malaysia's development and governance.
