PETALING JAYA: Friends and foes alike have sent a steady stream of good wishes to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad who turned 100 yesterday.
“Tun’s healthy lifestyle and tireless service remain an inspiration to a nation that is ageing, yet still holds high hopes,” said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that he and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail prayed for Dr Mahathir’s continued well-being, peace of mind and physical strength as he navigates life with purpose and meaning.
Dr Mahathir, who was born on July 10, 1925, in Alor Setar, served two separate terms as Malaysia’s prime minister for a total of 24 years.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong extended his birthday wishes to the centenarian, saying: “Today (yesterday) marks a historic milestone as Tun M turns 100, a rare achievement by any measure. As Malaysia’s longest-serving prime minister, Tun M has left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape.”
In a Facebook post, Dr Wee acknowledged the former prime minister’s contributions, which have shaped many chapters of Malaysia’s development and governance over the decades.
Memorable moments: Dr Mahathir (middle) and Marina celebrating his 100th birthday at the relaunch of Galeria Sri Perdana, the former residence of the prime minister. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star
“While we may differ in our political views and approaches, his long-standing role in public service and national governance remains a significant part of Malaysia’s political history.
“Wishing Tun M continued health and peace on this special occasion,” he added.
Agriculture and Food Security Minister and Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu sent his greetings to the former Pakatan Harapan chairman, describing him as a key figure in Malaysia’s development and political history.
“A hundred years is an extraordinary period of time. It signifies a steadfastness in principles and an extraordinary dedication to the nation,” he said.
Singapore’s Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong conveyed birthday greetings to Dr Mahathir and also extended his well-wishes to Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali who will turn 99 tomorrow.
“Tun Mahathir was a seminal leader who shaped Malaysia into what it is today – a modern, globally connected and successful country,” said Lee in a post.
He said that Singapore and Malaysia have long shared a deep and multifaceted relationship and that despite differences on some issues, both countries “have always worked together to overcome differences and find common ground”.
Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir shared a message about her father, too.
She said there have been times when their family truly never thought they’d reach this day.
“Especially in 2007 when he endured two heart operations within two weeks and then took forever to recover.
“But by the grace of Allah SWT, he did and here we are today.”
As such, she expressed the family’s gratitude to the many surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, physiotherapists, nutritionists and others who cared for him at the Institut Jantung Negara.
“It is very easy to be complacent when you have a father who at 100 is relatively healthy and active. The signs of old age are few – hands with veins showing clearly under thinned skin – and infrequent, some forgetfulness, not hearing everything you said.
“But still, you brace yourself for the inevitable because you know one day you have to deal with it and you pray that Allah will be kind,” she added.
As for the birthday boy, he credits an active lifestyle for his longevity.
“I don’t just sit around or stay in comfortable places. I do various activities. I go for walks, I ride horses and cycle,” he said.
Speaking during a podcast interview broadcast on his social media, Dr Mahathir recounted a trip to Argentina where he rode a horse up a mountainous trail.
“It was challenging; if there was a wrong step, things could go wrong. I have fallen three times while horse riding but there were no serious injuries,” he said.
To him, he would strive to live each day like how he was in his younger years.
