Tun Dr Mahathir at 100: A Century of Vision, Struggle, and Legacy

On July 10, 2025, Malaysia commemorates a truly historic milestone, the 100th birthday of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, a towering figure in Malaysian history and one of the most influential statesmen in the modern Islamic world. It is not merely a celebration of age, but a reflection on a century of ideas, leadership, controversy, and unwavering dedication to nation-building.

A Life Intertwined with the Nation’s Journey

Born in 1925, in the then-colony of British Malaya, Tun Mahathir’s life has paralleled the evolution of the Malaysian nation, from colonisation to independence, from poverty to modernisation. His career in politics has been nothing short of extraordinary: serving twice as Prime Minister (1981–2003 and 2018–2020), leading with a unique blend of discipline, pragmatism, and nationalism.

At 100, Tun Mahathir remains mentally sharp, intellectually engaged, and fiercely vocal on matters of national interest. His thoughts still command attention, whether one agrees or disagrees.

Architect of Modern Malaysia

His first tenure as Prime Minister ushered in a new era of development:

Vision 2020: Launched in 1991, it was a bold and ambitious roadmap to make Malaysia a fully developed nation by the year 2020. While the goal was not fully achieved, the vision inspired decades of growth and national ambition.

Mega Projects: From the North-South Expressway to Putrajaya, the Petronas Twin Towers to the Multimedia Super Corridor, Tun Mahathir envisioned infrastructure as both a symbol and tool of progress.

Economic Independence: He was a strong proponent of reducing foreign dependency, promoting Bumiputera economic participation, and nurturing a national industrial base, notably through the Proton national car project.

Controversial Yet Unforgettable

Tun Mahathir has never shied away from controversy. Critics have accused him of authoritarian tendencies, particularly during the height of his power. The 1998 Reformasi movement, the judiciary crisis of 1988, and his long-standing feud with political rivals have left deep marks on the nation’s political fabric.

Yet, his second act, coming out of retirement at 92 to challenge the very system he once led, surprised the world. In 2018, he became the world’s oldest serving Prime Minister, showing his adaptability and continued relevance.

A Legacy of Nationalism and Malay Survival

At his core, Tun Mahathir is a Malay nationalist. His speeches, books, and policies reflect deep concern over the future of the Malay race, their unity, discipline, and economic survival in a competitive, globalised world. His critics may accuse him of racial favoritism, but for many Malays, he remains a voice of protection, a “bapa” figure whose worldview is rooted in survival and self-determination.

He often warned that Malays must not be complacent, must value education, discipline, and industry, or risk being overtaken in their own land. These messages still echo among many leaders and thinkers, especially in the face of global economic and political challenges.

Still Speaking, Still Relevant

Even at 100, Tun Mahathir remains an active participant in public discourse, writing, giving interviews, and voicing concerns on corruption, governance, and national direction. Whether we agree with his methods or not, Malaysia owes him a debt of gratitude for putting the country on the global map, economically, diplomatically, and intellectually.

A Century to Reflect and Learn

Few leaders in the world live to see their 100th birthday, and even fewer can look back on a century of nation-shaping contributions. Tun Dr Mahathir’s legacy is one of vision, tenacity, and paradox, a blend of modernisation and conservatism, unity and division, pragmatism and idealism.

As we celebrate his 100th birthday, it is fitting not just to look back at what he has done, but to reflect on what we have become as a nation, and where we want to go. His legacy challenges us to think boldly, act decisively, and above all, to put the nation above self.

Selamat Ulang Tahun ke-100, Tun.

Moga Allah panjangkan usia dalam kebaikan, dan semoga segala jasa Tun menjadi amal jariah yang berkekalan.