KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 — Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad today admitted failure in his efforts to unite the Malay community after more than two years of attempting to bring various groups together.

In a brief statement posted on social media, Dr Mahathir said he feared the country could “slip from the hands of the Malays”.

And claimed the community now prioritises the fate of political leaders over the interests of “race, country and religion.”

The veteran politician described the situation as a turning point for the future of the Malay community in Malaysia.