Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has turned 100. This veteran leader, who remained at the center of politics for over five decades, gave an interview on the eve of his birthday.
In the interview, he said that just as democracy has failed, so too has modern civilization. This information was reported on Thursday (July 10) by the Anadolu news agency.
Serving two terms as Prime Minister, Mahathir sharply criticized democracy, saying, “Democracy is a man-made system. It is not perfect. If not used properly, it does not yield good results.”
According to him, multiparty democracy creates weaknesses.
Mahathir said, “Democracy works better if there are only two political parties. Then one wins, one loses — this way, a strong government can be formed. But everyone wants to be a leader, parties split into small factions, and no group secures a majority to form a government. That’s why, in many cases, democracy has failed.”
On the international stage, Mahathir directly accused Israel’s war in Gaza of being a form of genocide, saying that the United States is enabling it from behind the scenes.
He added, “Hunger and war are being used to wipe out a nation, while the U.S. stands behind the perpetrators. This is a reflection of the collapse of Western civilization. We are living in a time where humanitarian values have been destroyed. As humans, we have returned to barbarism.”
He also remarked that the United States has lost its credibility as a global leader. In Mahathir’s words:
“The U.S. no longer speaks of human rights or values human life. They are no longer fit to lead the world.”
Mahathir was born on July 10, 1925, in the state of Kedah in British-ruled Malaya. Though he was a physician by profession, he entered politics at just 21 years of age. He was first elected to Parliament in 1964.
He became Prime Minister in 1981 and served for 22 consecutive years — the longest in Malaysia’s history. Under his rule, the country experienced unprecedented economic development. Even after turning 80, he remained active in politics. In 2018, he once again became Prime Minister, but resigned two years later due to the collapse of his political coalition.
When asked about the secret behind his long life, Mahathir said, “It’s better not to overeat. I regularly exercise, keep my mind sharp — I read, write, speak, debate, and stay active.”
He fondly remembered his wife Siti Hasmah (aged 98) as his lifelong companion with respect and love.
Mahathir also shared his thoughts about the future of Malaysia and the Muslim world. He believes political stability and good governance are crucial for Malaysia’s future.
He said, “The people need to be educated so they can contribute to national development.”
On the Muslim world, he expressed regret, saying, “Even on issues like Palestine, Muslim countries cannot reach consensus. The OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) requires unanimous decisions, but if even one member objects, nothing can be done. That’s why they are ineffective.”
Regarding his legacy, Mahathir said, “I won’t judge myself. History will decide what I’ve done. But working for my country has been the most satisfying.”
