By Datuk James Ligunjang J.P
Former State Assemblyman
While Social Activist Remy Majangkim’s laudatory portrayal of Dr Mahathir Mohamad emphasizes his longevity and reformist rhetoric, it is essential to critically examine the darker facets of his leadership and policies that profoundly impacted Malaysia and its diverse population.
Dr Mahathir’s era was marked by tendencies toward autocracy and authoritarianism.
His leadership style often concentrated power within a central figure, curbing dissent and consolidating control through policies and rhetoric that marginalized opposition voices. The political landscape under his reign was characterized by the suppression of political pluralism, leading to an environment where dissent was stifled and democratic norms were increasingly compromised.
Furthermore, Dr Mahathir’s economic policies and national development strategies frequently favored certain racial groups at the expense of others, sowing divisions rather than fostering unity.
His promotion of policies rooted in racial preferentialism—such as the New Economic Policy (NEP), which prioritized affirmative action for Malays while marginalizing minority communities—contributed to a divided society and entrenched ethnic disparities.
This approach not only perpetuated racial inequality but also weakened national cohesion.
His tenure also left a contentious legacy in Sabah, a state with a distinct history and unique aspirations.
Dr Mahathir’s implementation of the Project IC significantly altered Sabah’s demographic composition, which many Sabahans view as a calculated move to entrench political dominance by Peninsular Malaysia.
This demographic manipulation, coupled with policies that sidelined Sabah’s rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), has resulted in longstanding grievances. Sabahans often regard Dr Mahathir as the architect of policies that marginalized their state, leading to economic disparities and a sense of political disenfranchisement.
Datuk Dr Jeffrey Kitingan’s fervent crusade to recognize Sabahans’ aspirations under MA63 was met with imprisonment under the Internal Security Act (ISA). Many hold Dr Mahathir responsible for turning Sabah into one of Malaysia’s poorest states, despite its rich natural resources and strategic importance.
In sum, while Dr Mahathir Mohamad is unquestionably a towering figure in Malaysian politics, appreciating his contributions must be balanced with acknowledgment of the contentious aspects of his leadership.
His autocratic tendencies, racial policies, and impact on Sabah have left enduring scars and a complex legacy that continues to influence Malaysian society today.
To me, his 100 years birthday serves as a poignant reminder of Sabah’s twenty-two years of suffering under his reign.
Editor: The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect that of talantang.com.