At 100, Tun Dr Mahathir Still Commands a Powerful Presence
- Erik & Aya
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Photo: Mahathir Mohamad meeting Vladimir Putin in 2018. © Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons
[Former Prime Minister Mahathir at 100] A Man Who Moved the Nation with Words and Illuminates the Future with His Life
On July 10, 2025, Malaysia’s former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad turned 100. He is a key architect of Malaysia’s history — a physician, politician, and writer who has walked alongside the nation’s journey throughout his life.
A Century Walked Alongside the Nation
Tun Dr Mahathir was born in 1925 in Alor Setar, Kedah. He served as Malaysia’s Prime Minister for a total of 24 years, from 1981 to 2003, and again from 2018 to 2020.
For those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s, he was a constant presence. The "Look East Policy," the birth of the national car, and the grand national vision of “Wawasan 2020” — Malaysia during that era was filled with momentum.
He influenced not only policies and infrastructure, but also the way Malaysians think — about leadership, development, and dissent.
✍️ Sharp Words and Deep Insight
Alongside being a politician, Tun Dr Mahathir has also been an exceptional writer.
In 1947, while still a medical student, he contributed his first article to a newspaper, arguing that "Malay women should win their own freedom." Under the pen name "C.H.E. Det," he went on to write extensively on women’s empowerment, education, culture, and rural life.
He has authored more than 10 books, and even now continues to share his reflections on society through his blog (chedet.com).
His consistent use of clear, incisive language to engage with society has served as a mirror for Malaysia to reflect on itself.
🧠 The “Secrets” to Health and Vitality
Even at 100, Tun Dr Mahathir remains remarkably youthful, maintaining a sharp mind and a sense of humour.
Coping with Stress: “Identify the cause, and you can solve it.”When faced with problems, he draws on his medical training—always seeking the root cause before responding.
Relationships: “Accept differences.”“Everyone is different. No one needs to be exactly like me,” he says. His long marriage to Tun Dr Siti Hasmah is a testament to the value of tolerance.
Diet: “Eat everything—but just a little.”He practices moderation rather than restriction, adjusting portion sizes according to age and physical needs.
Keep Moving—Body and MindFrom light exercise and cycling to reading, writing, and dialogue, he believes “staying active” is the key to aging well.
🧒 Advice for Young People: “Do what you love — for the good of society”
In recent years, mental health among young people has become a growing concern. Dr Mahathir offers this advice:
“If you do what you love, work won’t feel like a burden. And if what you love also benefits society, that’s even better.”
He himself has said that serving the country gave him a sense of purpose — showing that fulfillment often lies in meaningful contribution.
🎂 Happy Birthday, Dr M!
Dr Mahathir has long been the one writing the “first draft” of the nation’s story. That commitment remains unchanged — continuing to challenge us, inspire reflection, and spark learning.
As he turns 100, we thank him for his lifelong journey — and wish him continued health, happiness, and strength in the years to come.
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📚 Sources
MalaysiaNow-"Dr Mahathir turns 100: A century of vision and leadership"(2025.7.10)
New Straits Times (NST)-"Dr Mahathir at 100: A consummate writer who inspired a nation" (2025.7.10)
The Star-"Turning 100 with Dr M" (2025.7.10)
