zoom_in Click to enlarge

Mahathir Mohamad

▲ ▼

description Mahathir Mohamad Overview

Mahathir Mohamad is a prominent Malaysian politician who has served two separate terms as the country's Prime Minister, first from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020. Born in 1925, he is recognized as the longest-serving prime minister in Malaysian history, having governed under the Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Harapan coalitions, respectively. His political career is distinguished by rapid economic modernization policies and centralized governance. He remains an active and highly influential figure in modern Southeast Asian politics.

help Mahathir Mohamad FAQ

How many terms did Mahathir Mohamad serve as Prime Minister of Malaysia?

Mahathir Mohamad served as the Prime Minister of Malaysia for two separate periods, first from 1981 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2020. His initial 22-year tenure is the longest of any Malaysian prime minister.

What coalition did Mahathir Mohamad lead during his second term as Prime Minister?

During his second term, Mahathir led the Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) coalition to a historic victory in the 2018 general election. This marked the first time the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition had lost power since Malaysia's independence.

How old was Mahathir Mohamad when he became Prime Minister for the second time?

Mahathir was 92 years old when he assumed office in 2018, making him the world's oldest sitting prime minister at the time. He served in the role until his resignation in early 2020 at the age of 94.

What major economic policies is Mahathir Mohamad known for?

Mahathir is heavily credited with transforming Malaysia into a modern, industrialized economy during his first term through initiatives like the Look East Policy. He also championed the development of the Multimedia Super Corridor and the Petronas Twin Towers.