Mahathir Mohamad

Mahathir Mohamad is a renowned Malaysian political leader and author, best known for serving as the Prime Minister of Malaysia in two non-consecutive terms—first from 1981 to 2003, and later from 2018 to 2020. Born on July 10, 1925, in Alor Setar, Kedah, he trained as a medical doctor before venturing into politics. As a leader of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO) and later Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia, he became a central figure in shaping Malaysia’s economic development and modernization during the late 20th century.

In addition to his political achievements, Mahathir Mohamad is a prolific writer and commentator, having authored several books including The Malay Dilemma, Doctor in the House, and A Doctor’s Diary. His writings reflect his deep concern for Malaysian identity, governance, and national growth. His policies often emphasized industrialization, education, and self-reliance. Even in retirement, he continued to write and speak extensively on regional and global issues, positioning himself as a critical voice in Southeast Asian geopolitics.

Some of Mahathir’s most quoted insights highlight his bold and sometimes controversial views. One of his famous quotes is: “We need to think. Otherwise, we will be governed by people who do.” This reflects his emphasis on critical thinking and education. Another widely cited remark is: “The problem is that the educated people don’t want to get involved in politics.” Through both his speeches and publications, Mahathir Mohamad has consistently urged Malaysians to be proactive citizens and thoughtful leaders.