KUALA LUMPUR, January 17 – The recent online interview with former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has stirred controversy, with critics accusing him of making racist remarks against the Indian community. In the interview with Thanthi TV, Mahathir expressed disdain for “immigrants,” particularly Indians, claiming, “I don’t know anything about my Indian roots; I am 100 percent Malay.”
Critics argue that Mahathir’s statements are a stark contradiction to Malaysia’s multicultural ethos and accuse him of promoting a divisive agenda. Mahathir’s remarks are seen as part of a long-standing pattern, where he has been criticized for divisive policies during his tenure as Prime Minister. Critics point to his past statement advocating the repetition of lies to make them appear as truth, which, they argue, contributed to a culture of misinformation and led to the erosion of Malaysia’s standing in the region.
The interview also raised concerns about a subtle religious undertone in Mahathir’s comments, with accusations that he implied loyalty to Malaysia should be measured by adopting the majority religion. Critics argue that such statements undermine the country’s diverse identity and contribute to a divisive narrative that hinders national unity.
