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FORMER prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad turns 100 today, marking a historic milestone in a life defined by public duty, reformist zeal and an unrelenting vision for national progress.
Born on 10 July 1925 in Lorong Kilang Ais, Alor Setar, Kedah, the youngest of nine children, Mahathir—fondly known as “Che Det”—was raised in a family of educators, instilling in him discipline, a love of learning, and a sense of social responsibility that would later shape his political career.
After attending Sultan Abdul Hamid College, he studied medicine at King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore. His early years as a government doctor offered firsthand insight into the everyday struggles of ordinary Malaysians, especially the marginalised Malay population, and deeply influenced his political ideology.
Tun Mahathir first became prime minister in 1981, succeeding Tun Hussein Onn, and returned to office in 2018. His comeback at the age of 92 made him the world’s oldest serving head of government.
He is remembered for policies that propelled Malaysia’s transformation from a primarily agrarian economy into a modern industrial nation.
Signature initiatives such as the Look East Policy and Vision 2020 aimed to elevate Malaysia to developed status, while landmark infrastructure projects—including the Petronas Twin Towers, Putrajaya, KLIA, the North-South Expressway (PLUS), and national carmaker Proton—stand as enduring legacies of his tenure.
Tun Mahathir also led the country through the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997–1998 with an unorthodox yet resolute approach, cementing his image as a pragmatic and bold leader.
Even at 100, Mahathir remains intellectually and physically active—authoring books, participating in public discourse, and maintaining a notable presence on social media. He is frequently cited as a model of discipline and mental clarity well into old age.
“Even on a plane, while many rest, Tun M chooses to read and write,” said Dr Al-Amril Othman of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, who credits Mahathir’s simple lifestyle and strong upbringing as sources of his longevity and sharpness.
Political analyst Professor Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian described Mahathir as “a visionary who gave Malaysia a place on the world stage”.
“As the Father of Modernisation, he transformed Malaysia from a developing state into a dynamic economy,” said Sivamurugan. “Vision 2020, the ‘Malaysia Boleh’ spirit, and strategic mega projects redefined national ambition and identity.”
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, extended their birthday wishes in a social media message, praying for Mahathir’s continued health and well-being.
“Azizah and I sincerely pray that Tun continues to be granted well-being, tranquillity of soul, and physical strength in living a life full of meaning,” said Anwar.
“His healthy way of life and tireless contributions serve as a model for a nation that is growing older, yet continues to carry great hope,” he added. “May Allah SWT continue to bless Tun, Insya-Allah.”
As Malaysia commemorates the centenary of its most prominent statesman, Tun Mahathir’s legacy endures—etched into its institutions, infrastructure and national consciousness. - July 10, 2025
