Having survived three heart attacks in 1989 and 2006, this statesman is in a prime position to share his vision of the global future during an exclusive interview with Nikkei Asia on November 23, 2024. His insights are rooted in nearly eight decades of extraordinary political experience.
However, one intriguing point emerged during the interview. He predicted that centenarians—individuals aged 100 and above—could emerge as leaders, with Asia leading the way in this transformation.
At first glance, it sounds unusual. How could someone aged 100 still lead? After all, the median age of leaders worldwide is around 62.
Donald Trump (78) is already considered the oldest individual ever elected to the presidency in the history of the United States. So, how does Tun reconcile the idea of centenarian leaders?
He explained, “functional ability surpasses chronological age.” What does this mean?
“In ancient Greece, Julius Caesar was considered old and died as early as his 30s. Alexander the Great died at 32—remarkably young compared to today’s standards. If someone is still strong, capable, and functioning effectively at work, then age is never a barrier,” said Tun Dr. Mahathir during the interview.
Tun holds the record as the world’s oldest prime minister, having been sworn in at 92 years and 141 days in 2018. He did so while doubting his own abilities at the age of 90.
Yet, convinced that something had to be done to correct the chaos in politics, he resolutely returned to the political stage.
Today, his functional abilities are evident—he continues to write, deliver speeches at global forums by invitation, and receive foreign delegations nearly every week.
All of this is accomplished at nearly 100 years of age. He remains “Fit like a Bull to Rule.”
Through the interview, Tun sought to highlight an undeniable truth—the modern world allows people to live longer and work longer.
He even envisioned centenarian leaders serving efficiently in the future.
The question is, who will be the centenarian leader to emerge?
Undoubtedly, a world heading toward a new civilization will require an extraordinary leader.
Facing the geopolitical turmoil of this era is no easy task. It demands a resilient leader, courageous at heart, carrying the spirit of the times, and uniting Muslims toward global peace.
Like it or not, Tun Dr. Mahathir is the only centenarian statesman actively moving toward such a path.
He argued, saying, “The loss of the elderly means the loss of valuable knowledge.”
In the same interview, Tun Dr. Mahathir made an admission: “I regret stepping down in 2003 when I hadn’t even reached 80.”
This admission hints that he may indeed be the centenarian leader of the future he envisioned.
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