‘I should be dead now’, Dr M says of his second stint as PM


Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaks during an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP) in Putrajaya on November 1, 2018. - Six months after winning power in a shock election victory, Mahathir, the world's oldest leader at 93, concedes he's exhausted as he battles to rebuild a "destroyed" government. (Photo by Mohd RASFAN / AFP)

PUTRAJAYA (AFP): Leaning back in his chair and admitting he is feeling every one of his 93 years, the world’s oldest leader Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says his second stint as Malaysian premier is taking its toll as he grapples with everything from fending off China to paying down a mammoth national debt.

“I should be dead now, actually,” joked the nonagenarian leader in an interview with AFP Thursday (Nov 1).

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Nation

High hotel demand expected
US to consider selling missiles to Malaysia, says Khaled
Missing hiker scratched message on ground at summit of Gunung Batu Putih, says guide
Traditional food and indigenous seed rights take centre stage at Kaamatan lab
Worker crushed to death by falling concrete structure
Malaysia Airports advises travellers to plan ahead amid high car park occupancy
Current MyKad remains valid for all uses, says NRD
NRD has received over 1,500 applications to shorten names since 2024
Ampang/Sri Petaling LRT line operating on alternative schedule
Malaysian graduates from West Point

Others Also Read