Former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad stated that Malaysia's indigenous Malays are losing political influence and that the country may become like neighboring Singapore with a non-Malay prime minister in power by the time of the next election.
Saturday, at a dialogue in Putrajaya with other invited leaders, he stated that Malaysian Malays' "economic control has been gone for a long time" and that they now fear losing their political influence as well.
According to Malaysian media, Dr. Mahathir stated that during the next two elections, Malaysia may become Singapore.
He linked this likelihood to his unsubstantiated suggestion that the present administration might change electoral boundaries to minimize the number of Malay-majority seats.
"This circumstance will alter the pattern of the current administration in GE16, and it will worsen in GE17," he warned, referring to the next two general elections that will occur within the next decade.
"There is no assurance that the prime minister would be a Malay, as anybody can serve in that position. Even now, the Malay parties in the government are not in control and are split into three parties.
"I am certain that if we are not vigilant, the next election will occur, and if the votes are purchased, we will elect incompetent individuals who will mortgage our nation," if votes are bought.
The other presenters in the "The Lost Struggle" lecture were two former Cabinet ministers. Tan Sri Noh Omar was dismissed from Umno without ceremony in January, and Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin lost her deposit when she ran in Malaysia's 15th general election in November.
Dr. Mahathir, now a consultant for Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra), routinely campaigns for the rights of bumiputera (indigenous people) in Malaysia. Upon joining Putra, he stated that his "primary objective is the unification of the Malay people, parties, and organizations."
Several Malaysians appreciated Dr. Mahathir's prediction.
"Singapore's internet is quicker, earnings are higher, public transportation is superior, and automobile ownership is strictly regulated... Why not, Mahathir? Why can't we be like Singapore?" remarked journalist Erna Mahyuni.
Paris B, a beauty blogger, tweeted, "I hope Mahathir's prognosis is accurate. Can't wait for Malaysia to become Singapore-like (but with better cuisine)!"
Dr. Mahathir also stated that the Malaysian unity government had failed to bring about significant reforms for the people and that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's first 100 days in office had been ineffective.
Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof stated that he appreciated Dr. Mahathir, the country's longest-serving prime leader over two terms, but he urged unity among Malaysia's numerous political groups.
On Sunday, he stated, "I admire Tun Dr. Mahathir as someone who has made significant contributions to the country and I hope he would continue to assist us." "Today, Malaysians require our unity, since we cannot afford to engage in more politicking."
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