In an exclusive interview at the Perdana Leadership Foundation, the venerable Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, at the ripe age of 98, shared insights into his illustrious career, the secret to a long, fulfilling life, and his views on the evolving landscape of medicine and social media in Malaysia.
Dr. Mahathir, synonymous with Malaysia’s transformation over the last four decades, began the day with his routine, embodying the discipline he credits for his longevity. “The most important thing is not to grow fat,” he quipped, sharing wisdom from his mother about stopping when food tastes nice to avoid overeating. He remembers his mum saying, “When the food tastes nice, the tendency is to eat too much.”
From Medicine to Politics
The transition from a medical doctor to a political figure was not a switch but a return to his first passion. Dr. Mahathir revealed that politics beckoned him even in his teens, but he pursued medicine to gain the respect and credibility needed to make an impact. His medical training, he noted, equipped him with problem-solving skills invaluable to his political career.
The Evolution of Malaysian Healthcare
Reflecting on Malaysia’s healthcare landscape, Dr Mahathir highlighted the nation’s early adoption of medical treatment for its population, a practice that began during the British period and continued post-independence. This system has now evolved into a thriving medical tourism industry, attracting patients globally thanks to its quality of care and affordability. However, Dr Mahathir cautioned against the challenges of maintaining low-cost medical services amid rising living costs and emphasised the need for continual investment in healthcare to cater to a growing population and the demand for specialists.
Tackling Challenges in the Health Ministry
Addressing the issue of retaining doctors within Malaysia, Dr Mahathir pointed to the allure of private practice, where doctors venture into more lucrative private sectors after gaining valuable experience and reputation in government hospitals. He stressed the importance of the Ministry of Health’s role in balancing the need for experienced doctors and training new ones amidst the complexities of modern medicine.
The Impact of Social Media
Dr Mahathir praised social media’s potential for democratising information dissemination, enabling individuals to broadcast their messages worldwide without government censorship. He stated, “Social media gives you the freedom to broadcast. There is much more freedom now in information than there was before.”
However, he also warned of the dangers of fake news and misinformation, highlighting the need for responsible consumption and dissemination of information online. He warned, “Nowadays, there are people who try to fake themselves as doctors. So when you use social media, you must make sure of the quality of the news that you receive, you don’t want somebody to give fake news to people to promote the products they have.”
Advice for a Fulfilling Life
Dr. Mahathir’s advice was simple yet profound to the young and aspiring: discipline, hard work, and a positive outlook. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling food intake, and embracing the challenges and rigours of one’s profession are crucial for success and happiness. “Always think about your future. If you want to live a long life, you have to be careful. If you go and do things that are damaging to you, then in the future, when you grow old, the effect will be felt,” he advised, stressing the importance of foresight and self-care.
Conclusion
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s reflections offer a glimpse into the mindset of a leader who has not only shaped the trajectory of a nation but has also navigated the vast changes in the global landscape with wisdom and adaptability. His enduring legacy, marked by a commitment to development, healthcare, and the well-being of his people, continues to inspire and guide Malaysia and the world.
