I will not be PM for third time if PN takes over Malaysia government: Mahathir
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Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was quoted as saying that at the age of 100, he would not be able to lead from the front, but could still contribute to the government with his 80 years of political experience.
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JOHOR BAHRU – Malaysia’s longest-serving prime minister Mahathir Mohamad has stressed that he does not plan to be premier a third time if Perikatan Nasional (PN) takes over the government.
Tun Dr Mahathir said he would just want to play the role of adviser.
Malay-language daily Sinar Harian quoted him as saying that at the age of 100, he would not be able to lead from the front owing to his age, but could still contribute to the government with his 80 years of political experience.
“I am already 100. I cannot make fiery speeches like before. I do not want to take the place of young people. I have already been prime minister twice. That is enough. I can still give advice as I have been prime minister for 24 years and have been in politics for 80 years,” he said during a gathering at Stadium Suka Menanti in Alor Setar, which is the capital of the northern state of Kedah, on July 17.
Also present at the event were opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia president Abdul Hadi Awang and Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin and his deputy Hamzah Zainudin, as well as Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Dr Mahathir said that if PN were to take over Putrajaya, it would be a government that listens to the people and settles issues, especially poverty.
“If we change the government, we will have a prime minister who listens. I am sure many issues can be resolved,” he said.
Dr Mahathir said Malaysia is a rich nation, and that the people’s lives would be easier if the country’s assets were managed properly. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
