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Former Prime Minister Tun Mahathir highly praised the political demeanor and noble conduct of the late former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, stating that he was a leader who served the nation with outstanding performance and voluntarily stepped down at the appropriate time.
During an interview with the media at the National Mosque, Mahathir mentioned that he had known Abdullah for a long time, even before becoming prime minister in 1981.
“I clearly remember our first meeting was in 1968, at a supermarket.”
Recalling their working experience together, Mahathir said he chose Abdullah as Deputy Prime Minister before his retirement, indicating he was the successor.
“When I decided to retire, I appointed him as Deputy Prime Minister, signifying that he would succeed me.”
“Indeed, after I stepped down, Abdullah succeeded me as Prime Minister.”
He pointed out that Abdullah led the National Front to a landslide victory in the 2004 general election.
“He...set a historic victory record in our country, with 90% of voters supporting the government led by him. It was an unprecedented success.”
“He indeed faced numerous difficulties, which is why the 2008 general election performance was not as expected.”
“But when support dwindled, and many demanded his resignation, he did not resist but stepped down calmly, passing the Prime Minister position to Datuk Seri Najib.”
Mahathir stated that this move demonstrated Abdullah’s statesmanship, which also reflected Malaysia’s tradition of peaceful leadership transition.
“This is how we do it in Malaysia. We retire peacefully, hand over power without causing issues.”
“If this practice can continue, may Allah bless Malaysia with ongoing peace. Abdullah set a good example.”
Finally, he expressed condolences to Abdullah's family and encouraged them to be strong.
“I extend my sincere sympathies to his family. I believe they will endure this period with resilience. As this is the nature of life, we will eventually depart.”