A Century of Defiance

Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad turned 100 on 10th July 2025. What makes him truly special isn’t just his impressive age, but his unwavering courage to say “no” even when the entire world expected a “yes.”

Dr. Mahathir in history twice Prime Minister 2018. Photo : Bloomberg

Saying No to IMF During the 1998 Financial Crisis

I still remember the late 1990s clearly. Many businesses around us shut down overnight, families struggled, and anxiety was everywhere. Southeast Asian countries were turning to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for quick help. It felt like the logical choice – but Mahathir thought differently.

Economic Crisis 1998, Photo: Getty Image

Instead of following the crowd, Mahathir called together Malaysia’s best finance minds – including Tun Daim Zainuddin, Tan Sri Dr. Zeti Akhtar Aziz (Bank Negara Governor), Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop, and Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid. They spent the night carefully examining every detail. Mahathir, originally a medical doctor, always valued expert opinions, learned quickly, and never made rash decisions. By morning, the team unanimously decided accepting an IMF loan would compromise Malaysia’s financial independence.

Dr. Zeti Akhthar, former Governer National Bank Malaysia / Getty Image

The next day, Mahathir surprised everyone by pegging the Malaysian Ringgit at RM3.80 to 1 US Dollar.
We became the only country in the region bold enough to reject IMF loans – and it worked. Malaysia’s economy quickly stabilized, and the decision set an example globally.

Margaret Thatcher’s Unexpected Visit

Mahathir’s boldness made international headlines again when tensions with Margaret Thatcher’s Britain escalated. Thousands of Malaysian students studying in the UK brought significant revenue to British universities. Mahathir retaliates with policy "Buy British Last". When Mahathir abruptly redirected these students elsewhere, the economic impact was huge. Thatcher herself flew to Malaysia to personally negotiate with Mahathir – a remarkable turn of events given Britain’s colonial history with Malaysia.

“No, I’m Busy” – Rejecting the White House

One unforgettable moment was Mahathir’s polite yet firm rejection of President George Bush’s invitation to the White House. His reason was straightforward: “I’m busy managing my country.” This wasn’t arrogance – it was a clear message of national independence and autonomy.

Holding Everyone Accountable

Mahathir took an unprecedented stand domestically by addressing the sensitive subject of royal immunity directly. Malaysia’s royal institution traditionally held a respected and protected status under the Federal Constitution, often considered beyond challenge. However, when an incident involving a royal family member invoking diplomatic immunity after alleged misconduct came to light, Mahathir courageously insisted that nobody, not even royalty, is above the law.

His government subsequently initiated constitutional amendments limiting royal immunity, ensuring fairness and accountability. Mahathir was careful to highlight that while most royals performed their duties with dignity and grace, accountability was crucial for preserving the institution’s integrity. This groundbreaking action reinforced Malaysia’s respect for the monarchy as an institution built on mutual respect and responsibility between rulers and citizens.

Educational Transformation Through Dasar Ekonomi Baru ( New Economic Policy )

Perhaps Mahathir’s most lasting legacy is his commitment to education through the Dasar Ekonomi Baru (New Economic Policy). He launched special scholarship programs for talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds, giving thousands of Malaysians the chance to succeed and thrive.

Today, at 100 years old, Mahathir Mohamad stands as a remarkable example that true leadership sometimes means saying “no” when everyone else expects a “yes.” The famous quote that he used to mentioned as before was “ 

As Mahathir once said, and it still rings true today: “People don’t have to like me. I make decisions that are right for the country.”

Happy 100th Birthday, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.

Before him, the world barely knew a small country called Malaysia – often overshadowed by the British legacy of Singapore, the global harbour hub. But because of him, they had to know.
Because of him, Malaysia wasn’t just another name on the map – it became a voice. A force. A country that dared to speak up, even when standing alone.

He didn't just change the systems within. He challenged the ones beyond – calling out superpowers like the US and UK, unapologetically. He never shrank himself just because we came from Southeast Asia. Never bowed his head just because we were “small.”

Many may defy his legacy – but fact is fact: if you lived through his era, you felt the shift. From policies to pride. From silence to sovereignty.
He wasn’t perfect – but he was impactful. Relentlessly. Undeniably.

And today, as he turns 100, we don’t just remember a man.
We remember an era.
Thank you Tun.