Since Tun Mahatir was sworn in as the 7th Prime Minister recently, his reputation skyrocketed not just within the country but worldwide.
Dearly called Tun M, his return as the PM has moved the nation greatly. At the age of 93, he still came back to this position of great responsibility just to undo all the bad that has been done.
Obviously a man of high intelligence and great wit, Tun M has often shared many inspiring words with us. Sometimes, the topics are rather grim and serious too but thanks to his sense of humour, he is able to lighten the issue at hand.
Here are 12 of Tun M’s best quotes:
1. When he begged Malaysians to re-think their votes
“We call upon all Malaysians, irrespective of race, religion, political situation, creed or parties, young and old, to join us in saving Malaysia from the government headed by Najib Razak.
“We must rid ourselves of Najib as prime minister. If he’s allowed to go on, the damage will be worse and worse.”
2. When he was humble enough to admit our weaknesses
“It is obvious that we are short of scientists. With what we have, it may not be possible for us to compete (in terms of) innovation.”
3. When Tun M reminded people that knowledge is important
“Knowledge has always been important, of course. The ancient Egyptians did not raise the stones for the pyramids relying on the incantations of their gods.
“The waters in the irrigation canals of the great Indus Civilisation did not flow according to the laws of ignorance. Knowledge has always been power and wealth.”
4. When he thought people how to make a name for themselves
“If you can’t be famous, at least you can be notorious.”
5. When he reminded people to be humble
“No one should have extra influence on an organisation. We should always regard ourselves as equals in the organisation, and we should be concerned about each other’s problems.”
6. When he pointed out the flaw in our politics
“When you have elections in which 90% or 95% or 99% of those elected come from one party, then I think there is some fraudulent act.”
and
“I believe that the country should have a strong government but not too strong. A two-thirds majority like I enjoyed when I was prime minister is sufficient but a 90% majority is too strong.”
7. When Tun M was on BN’s side and still wanted a fair fight
“We need an opposition to remind us if we are making mistakes. When you are not opposed you think everything you do is right.”
8. When he shared what a true leader should be
“To be a great leader, one needs to have good strategies, be knowledgeable and able to predict the future.”
9. When Tun M threw shade on Najib
“I believe that if that bastard leaves, we then won’t be bastardised.”
10. When he wanted to kiss Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim
“Even if I were to kiss and hug Anwar Ibrahim in public, they will say there is a rift because this is what they want to see.”
11. When he reminded people that it’s humans’ fault and not religion
“Clearly Islam the religion is not the cause of terrorism. Islam, as I said, is a religion of peace. However through the centuries, deviations from the true teachings of Islam take place.
“And so [people who call themselves] “Muslims” kill despite the injunction of their religion against killing especially of innocent people.”
12. When he shared a little too much details about his private life
“[If it is] for adults like me, about 80-years-old, quite incapable…that’s alright [to watch porn].
“I’m not confessing anything but wait until you reach 80, then you’ll know.
“We were born together, we grew up together, we played together, we enjoyed life together, we grew old together…but why must that thing die before me?
“Well, for me, it is quite harmless look at [pornography], you only have nostalgia. Nothing wakes up at all, everything is dead.”
Of course, Tun M may know how to crack jokes irregardless of the topic at hand but at the same time, he knows when best to use his words according to the situation.
Malaysians heard his calling to overthrow Najib Razak and we did that in the 14th General Election. He is indeed a man with great power.
