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Malaysia’s former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad is recovering in hospital after breaking his hip in a fall at his home, officials confirmed Wednesday. The 100-year-old statesman was admitted to the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday and is expected to remain under medical care for several weeks.
“It’s a hip fracture and we have to wait for it to heal which, due to his age, will take time,” his daughter Marina Mahathir told The Associated Press. She dismissed circulating rumors about her father’s condition, adding: “It’s serious in anyone, more so a 100-year-old, but it’s not life-threatening.”
According to Mahathir’s son Mukhriz, the former premier sustained the injury during his routine morning exercise of brisk walking. Medical professionals have ruled out surgery as an option due to Mahathir’s advanced age, which means his recovery process could be extended.
This latest health concern adds to a series of medical issues the former leader has faced in recent years. Mahathir has a documented history of heart disease, having undergone two major cardiac surgeries — an initial bypass operation in 1989 following a heart attack and a subsequent quadruple bypass in 2007. Despite these challenges, he has remained remarkably active in his later years.
Mahathir reached the centenarian milestone in July this year, a remarkable achievement for a man who has remained engaged in public discourse long after many of his contemporaries retired from view. When asked about his longevity at his 100th birthday celebration, he attributed it to maintaining both mental and physical activity.
“So long as I can function, I want to function. I want to behave almost as if I am not getting old. I try to live the same life that I lived when I was younger,” he remarked at the time, offering insight into the philosophy that has guided his later years.
Mahathir’s political career spans decades and includes two distinct periods as Malaysia’s prime minister. His first and longest tenure ran from 1981 to 2003, during which he oversaw Malaysia’s transformation into an industrial economy and regional power. After a political comeback at the age of 92, he served again from 2018 to 2020, earning the distinction as the world’s oldest head of government.
His second premiership ended amid political turmoil when his coalition government collapsed, leading to his resignation. The political veteran has since remained a vocal commentator on Malaysian affairs, frequently offering his perspectives on governance and national development through various platforms.
Malaysia’s political landscape has been significantly shaped by Mahathir’s influence over more than four decades. During his first premiership, he implemented his “Look East” policy, emphasizing Asian values and development models over Western paradigms. His leadership style combined authoritarian elements with economic pragmatism, earning both praise for Malaysia’s development and criticism for restrictions on civil liberties.
The current hospitalization has drawn widespread attention across Malaysia and internationally, highlighting Mahathir’s enduring significance in the country’s political narrative. Government officials and opposition figures alike have extended their wishes for a swift recovery.
Medical experts note that hip fractures in centenarians require careful management, with recovery typically focusing on pain control, gradual mobilization, and preventing complications rather than surgical intervention.
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10 Comments
Mahathir’s age and history of heart disease will likely complicate his recovery, but it’s encouraging to hear the injury is not considered life-threatening. Hopefully the medical team is able to provide the best possible care and support during this time.
Agreed, the advanced age and prior medical conditions will present challenges, but with the right treatment and rehabilitation, a full recovery seems possible. Wishing Mahathir all the best.
While a broken hip is always a concerning injury, especially for someone of Mahathir’s advanced age, it’s reassuring to hear the family characterizing it as serious but not life-threatening. Wishing him a smooth and successful recovery process.
Agreed, the family’s assessment seems measured and realistic. Mahathir’s resilience and dedication to public service are truly remarkable. Hoping for the best outcome during his recovery.
A 100-year-old sustaining a broken hip is certainly a serious matter, but it’s good to hear the family is downplaying any immediate life-threatening concerns. Mahathir’s continued commitment to an active lifestyle at his age is quite admirable.
While a broken hip is certainly a significant health issue, it’s good to hear the family is downplaying any life-threatening concerns. Mahathir’s long political career and continued public engagement are truly remarkable.
It’s impressive that Mahathir was still maintaining an active exercise routine at 100 years old. Injuries can be more difficult to recover from at that age, but I hope the medical team is able to provide the best possible care.
An inspiring example of resilience and commitment to physical fitness, even in one’s later years. Wishing Mahathir all the best during his recovery.
Wishing Mahathir a full and speedy recovery. At 100 years old, a broken hip is certainly a serious injury but it’s good to hear it’s not life-threatening. His dedication to public service is admirable.
Agreed, it’s remarkable that Mahathir is still active and engaged at his advanced age. Hopefully the recovery process goes smoothly despite the challenges.