The country’s longest-serving prime minister and currently one of the biggest thorns in PM Najib Razak’s side, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, turns 90 today. Happy Birthday, sir!
Becoming the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia in 1981, Dr Mahathir succeeded Tunku Abdul Rahman, Najib’s father Abdul Razak, and Hussein Onn (father of Defence Minister Hishamuddin Hussein) and held on to the reigns of power for 22 years.
Mahathir has since eased (?) into a very hectic retirement, becoming adviser to both national car manufacturer Proton and national oil and gas giant Petronas. His family also has kept in the public eye, with social activist daughter Marina, industrialist Mokhzani, and Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz.
One of the venerable doctor’s children, Marina, took to Facebook yesterday to deliver heartwarming tribute to the man she calls Daddy, on his 90th year of life:
As fully expected, the post went viral among Malaysian netizens, with over 122,000 Likes, 6,704 Shares, and over 1,800 comments – although some comments veered towards the political topics of the day rather than just congratulating Dr M.
Here’s to not having to worry about the country heading in to that 100th candle!
Dr Mahathir’s wedding to Dr Siti Hasmah in 1956
Dr M and Dr Siti Hasmah in the 80s (credit: The Star 2)
Less turbulent times with proteges Anwar Ibrahim and Najib Razak
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