Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, affectionately known as Tun M, has been an icon of leadership and vision in Malaysia for decades.
For many, including myself, he is more than a political figure; he is a beacon of perseverance, intellect, and bold decision-making. His name is synonymous with Malaysia’s transformation from a developing nation into an emerging economic powerhouse.
My First Encounter: A Young Executive’s Dream
In 1999, I was a young executive working in Proton under what was then known as USPD (Usahasama Proton-DRB), later renamed Proton Edar. My role in the marketing department occasionally intersected with motorsports, and I had the privilege of being involved in the Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow (KLIMS) held at PWTC (Putra World Trade Centre).
At the Proton pavilion, I was stationed beside the Proton Satria Cabriolet, a one-of-a-kind model created specifically for the event. It was an eye-catching car, painted in an elegant shade of purple. It was here that I had my first encounter with Tun M. He was then Dato’ Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the Prime Minister of Malaysia.
I vividly remember assisting him as he inspected the car, showing him how the roof mechanism worked. It was a brief moment, yet it left an indelible mark on me.
Meeting someone of his stature, whose vision had reshaped Malaysia, was both humbling and inspiring.
The Legacy of Tun Mahathir
Tun M’s contributions to Malaysia are unparalleled. As the Prime Minister during two significant tenures, he implemented policies and projects that became the backbone of Malaysia’s development. Under his leadership:
1. Industrialisation Thrived: He spearheaded the National Car Project, giving birth to Proton, Malaysia’s first national car, symbolizing the country’s industrial ambition.
2. Infrastructure Development: Iconic projects like the North-South Expressway, KLCC, and Putrajaya were conceived and completed, modernizing Malaysia’s landscape.
3. Economic Resilience: During the 1997-1998 Asian Financial Crisis, Tun M took unconventional yet effective steps to stabilize Malaysia’s economy, including pegging the ringgit to the US dollar, a move widely debated yet undeniably successful.
4. Global Recognition: Malaysia became a prominent voice on the international stage, advocating for developing nations and standing firm on issues of justice and equality.
Reconnecting with a Visionary Leader
Fast forward to today, I now lead one of the GLCs in Kedah, a state that is part of the State Government 4 (SG4). Tun M serves as the advisor to SG4, and I have been fortunate to occasionally meet him to share updates and seek his guidance.
One such meeting took place recently at the Perdana Leadership Foundation. For over two hours, I listened intently as he shared his thoughts on:
i. Tourism Development: His ideas on leveraging Malaysia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to attract global visitors were as innovative as ever.
ii. Modern Agriculture: He emphasized the potential of integrating technology into farming to increase productivity and sustainability.
iii. Economic Strategies: Drawing from his experiences during the 1998 financial crisis, he offered timeless advice on navigating economic challenges with boldness and clarity.
What struck me most during the session was his advice on health and lifestyle.
Tun M shared how he still follows the wisdom imparted by his late mother: “Berhenti makan ketika sedap,” which loosely translates to “Stop eating when it tastes good.”
He explained that the secret to maintaining a healthy body is to eat in moderation and avoid overeating, even when the food is delicious.
His disciplined approach to food—eating small portions and stopping before feeling full—has undoubtedly contributed to his remarkable health at the age of 100.
I couldn’t argue with his advice as I observed his stamina, his sharp mind, and his ability to work daily, travel worldwide to deliver talks, and serve as an advisor to leaders. His vitality is living proof of the wisdom he shared.
Lessons from a Leader
Tun M has taught me that leadership is about courage, vision, and discipline, not just in governance but in everyday life. He once said, “To achieve greatness, one must be willing to take bold steps, even when the outcome is uncertain.”
His life reminds us that success is built not on comfort but on resilience and determination. As someone who has always admired him from afar, having the chance to engage with him in person has deepened my respect and admiration for his legacy.
Gratitude and Reflection
As I pen these words, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn from one of the greatest statesmen of our time. Tun M’s journey is a testament to the power of vision and hard work.
To those who may not have had the chance to meet him, I encourage you to reflect on his contributions to Malaysia and the world. His story is one of relentless pursuit, of never giving up on a dream, and of leaving a legacy that generations will remember.
I carry his lessons with me as I navigate my own leadership journey. Meeting Tun M has not only inspired me to be a better leader but also to prioritize health, discipline, and meaningful contributions to society, just as he has done tirelessly throughout his life.
May his wisdom continue to guide us, and may we, in our own ways, uphold the spirit of progress, resilience, and balance that he has exemplified.
