Former Malaysia prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Saturday (November 19) lost his parliamentary seat. This has likely ended the career of 97-year-old Mohamad who is widely recognised to be Asia's most enduring politicians.&nbsp;In a five-way fight in his long-held constituency of Langkawi, Mahathir came fourth, according to Malaysia's election commission.&nbsp;

It was Mahathir's first electoral defeat in more than half a century.

Of the 177 of 222 parliamentary seats counted, the Election Commission said Anwar's multi-ethnic Pakatan Harapan coalition was leading with 61 seats, while Muhyiddin's Perikatan Nasional alliance won 60 seats. Ismail's Barisan coalition got 24.

Mahathir held the Guinness World Record for being the "world's oldest current prime minister" when he became premier for a second time in 2018 just two months shy of his 93rd birthday.

Visibly slowed by age but still looking healthy, he ran this time around under his own Homeland Fighters' Party and had laughed off suggestions he should retire, telling reporters before the election he had a "good chance" of winning.

"I'm still standing around and talking to you, I think, making reasonable answers," Mahathir said.

He added his party would not form any alliances with parties that are led by "crooks or jailbirds" -- an apparent reference to the&nbsp;United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the party of jailed former prime minister Najib Razak.

Mahathir has been criticised for ruling the Southeast Asian nation with an iron fist from 1981 to 2003 but is also hailed for helping transform the country from a sleepy backwater into one of the world's top exporters of high-tech goods.

Mahathir's long leadership provided political stability and he gained the title of "Father of Modern Malaysia" as he oversaw the construction of highways and industrial parks in the 1980s and 1990s.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former Malaysia prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Saturday (November 19) lost his parliamentary seat. This has likely ended the career of 97-year-old Mohamad who is widely recognised to be Asia's most enduring politicians.

Former Malaysia prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Saturday (November 19) lost his parliamentary seat. This has likely ended the career of 97-year-old Mohamad who is widely recognised to be Asia's most enduring politicians. In a five-way fight in his long-held constituency of Langkawi, Mahathir came fourth, according to Malaysia's election commission. It was Mahathir's first electoral defeat in more than half a century. Of the 177 of 222 parliamentary seats counted, the Election Commission said Anwar's multi-ethnic Pakatan Harapan coalition was leading with 61 seats, while Muhyiddin's Perikatan Nasional alliance won 60 seats. Ismail's Barisan coalition got 24. Mahathir held the Guinness World Record for being the "world's oldest current prime minister" when he became premier for a second time in 2018 just two months shy of his 93rd birthday. Visibly slowed by age but still looking healthy, he ran this time around under his own Homeland Fighters' Party and had laughed off suggestions he should retire, telling reporters before the election he had a "good chance" of winning. "I'm still standing around and talking to you, I think, making reasonable answers," Mahathir said. He added his party would not form any alliances with parties that are led by "crooks or jailbirds" -- an apparent reference to the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the party of jailed former prime minister Najib Razak. Mahathir has been criticised for ruling the Southeast Asian nation with an iron fist from 1981 to 2003 but is also hailed for helping transform the country from a sleepy backwater into one of the world's top exporters of high-tech goods. Mahathir's long leadership provided political stability and he gained the title of "Father of Modern Malaysia" as he oversaw the construction of highways and industrial parks in the 1980s and 1990s. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Malaysia: 97-year-old Mahathir loses election, tastes first defeat in more than 50 years

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP).

The CEP presented the list as a collection of extremists across a spectrum of ideologies and beliefs, whom it said were “considered a huge threat to international security.”

Nasrallah is named as the most dangerous in the list, ahead of Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, the self-styled “caliph” of terrorist group Islamic State. Mahathir is number 14 on the list.

The CEP cited Mahathir as anti-Semitic, a critic of the West, and highlighted his remarks about the October 2020 terrorist attack in France.

“Mahathir is not directly responsible for specific acts of violence. However, his controversial opinions have led to international condemnation as it was alleged Mahathir supported extremist violence against the West,” the CEP said.

The CEP was founded in 2014 by former US government officials with a particular focus on disrupting the IS terrorist group.

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP).

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP). The CEP presented the list as a collection of extremists across a spectrum of ideologies and beliefs, whom it said were “considered a huge threat to international security.” Nasrallah is named as the most dangerous in the list, ahead of Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, the self-styled “caliph” of terrorist group Islamic State. Mahathir is number 14 on the list. The CEP cited Mahathir as anti-Semitic, a critic of the West, and highlighted his remarks about the October 2020 terrorist attack in France. “Mahathir is not directly responsible for specific acts of violence. However, his controversial opinions have led to international condemnation as it was alleged Mahathir supported extremist violence against the West,” the CEP said. The CEP was founded in 2014 by former US government officials with a particular focus on disrupting the IS terrorist group.

Mahathir, Hezbollah secy general listed as world’s ‘most dangerous extremists’ by US-based group

At 95, Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has launched a party. He is contesting the imminent snap polls. Mahathir Mohamad spoke exclusively to WION's Palki Sharma. If in power, will Mahathir extradite Zakir Naik. Listen in to this exclusive conversation.

Gravitas: Mahathir Mohamad speaks to WION

Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension.

Mahathir, 94, sparked turmoil with his surprise resignation last month, shortly after his coalition partners were seen in talks with his opponents.

Muhyiddin, a former minister in Mahathir's cabinet, was later sworn in as prime minister on March 1, joining hands with the old ruling UMNO party - which lost a general election for the first time ever in 2018 - and the Islamist party PAS to form a new coalition.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-palace-denies-royal-coup-in-appointing-new-pm-285081">Malaysia's palace denies 'royal coup' in appointing new PM</a>

In an interview published on Wednesday, Mahathir conceded that he no longer commanded a majority in parliament and would not win a vote of no confidence in the new prime minister, after some supporters abandoned him to join the new premier's camp.

In response, Muhyiddin said he had written to Mahathir to request a meeting and apologise to Malaysia's most prominent political figure, who ruled for 22 years between 1981 and 2003, before coming out of retirement to contest and win the 2018 election.

"We have formed this government and I want Tun to endorse this government, that it is a government for the people," Muhyiddin, referring to Mahathir by his title, told a news conference.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-malaysias-political-turmoil-questions-over-trials-in-1mdb-scandal-283925">After Malaysia's political turmoil, questions over trials in 1MDB scandal</a>

Mahathir was not immediately available for comment.

Muhyiddin also dismissed speculation about an early general election.

"I don't want that," he said. "People will not only curse, they will say this is not the right time. We are here to serve."

Muhyiddin's appointment comes as Malaysia deals with a downward-spiralling economy, as well as the impact of the coronavirus epidemic on trade and a crash in global oil prices.

Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension.

Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension. Mahathir, 94, sparked turmoil with his surprise resignation last month, shortly after his coalition partners were seen in talks with his opponents. Muhyiddin, a former minister in Mahathir's cabinet, was later sworn in as prime minister on March 1, joining hands with the old ruling UMNO party - which lost a general election for the first time ever in 2018 - and the Islamist party PAS to form a new coalition. Also read: Malaysia's palace denies 'royal coup' in appointing new PM In an interview published on Wednesday, Mahathir conceded that he no longer commanded a majority in parliament and would not win a vote of no confidence in the new prime minister, after some supporters abandoned him to join the new premier's camp. In response, Muhyiddin said he had written to Mahathir to request a meeting and apologise to Malaysia's most prominent political figure, who ruled for 22 years between 1981 and 2003, before coming out of retirement to contest and win the 2018 election. "We have formed this government and I want Tun to endorse this government, that it is a government for the people," Muhyiddin, referring to Mahathir by his title, told a news conference. Also read: After Malaysia's political turmoil, questions over trials in 1MDB scandal Mahathir was not immediately available for comment. Muhyiddin also dismissed speculation about an early general election. "I don't want that," he said. "People will not only curse, they will say this is not the right time. We are here to serve." Muhyiddin's appointment comes as Malaysia deals with a downward-spiralling economy, as well as the impact of the coronavirus epidemic on trade and a crash in global oil prices.

Malaysian PM calls on Mahathir to endorse new government

Malaysia's king summoned Mahathir Mohamad on Thursday as the country waits for an end to the political chaos caused by his shock resignation as prime minister amid an intense power struggle.

Malaysia's king Sultan summons Mahathir Mohammad

Prime Minister of Malaysia at Kuala Lumpur summit in Malaysia criticized the Indian Citizenship (Amendment) Act by questioning the necessity of the law. Indian foreign ministry hits back by rejecting all claims and mentioned Indian citizenship law as India's internal matter. #CAA #KualaLumpurSummit #IndianCitizenshipLaw

Indian sends strong message to Malaysia over it's comment on CAA

Malaysian PM criticized Indian CAA, India hits back by rejecting Mahathir's claims

Hosting a&nbsp;summit&nbsp;of&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;leaders,&nbsp;Malaysia's Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-mahathir-mohamad-suggests-he-could-stay-in-office-beyond-2020-268284/amp">Mahathir Mohamad</a> bemoaned the state of Islam and defended the meeting that has been&nbsp;shunned&nbsp;by&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia and criticised for undermining the bigger Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Divisions in the&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;world were self-evident as only about 20 countries sent leaders, or delegations to the Kuala Lumpur&nbsp;summit, though all 57 members of the&nbsp;OIC&nbsp;had been invited.

The&nbsp;Saudi King's refusal to attend and the late <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-imran-khan-cancels-malaysia-summit-under-saudi-diplomatic-pressure-268893">withdrawal of Pakistan</a> from the event had left the hosts scrambling to soothe sensitive relations.

In welcoming remarks, Mahathir said the Kuala Lumpur&nbsp;Summit&nbsp;was meant to understand why Islam, the&nbsp;Muslims and their countries were "in a state of crisis, helpless and unworthy of this great religion".

It was unclear to what extent the leaders would discuss major geopolitical crises afflicting the&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;world, ranging from the age-old disputes in the Middle East and Kashmir to the conflicts in Syria and Yemen, through to the plight of Rohingya&nbsp;Muslims in Myanmar and the alleged persecution of Uighur&nbsp;Muslims in China's Xinjiang region.

Mahathir said the&nbsp;summit, which will end on Saturday, should address the world's perceptions of Islam, the rise of Islamophobia, the decline of the Islamic civilisation and reforms in governance needed by&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;nations.

"We are not discriminating or isolating anyone," he said in his welcome speech, watched on by leaders including Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamid Al-Thani.

"We are attempting to start small and if these ideas, proposals and solutions are acceptable and proved workable, then we hope to take it up to the larger platform for consideration."

Turkey's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-says-turkey-to-boost-cooperation-with-libya-reports-268975">Tayyip Erdogan</a> struck a similar tone.

"We will have the opportunity to talk freely about our issues, from Islamophobia to terrorism, divisions, internal fights ravaging our region, and sectarian and ethnic conflicts,” Erdogan told the&nbsp;summit.

The&nbsp;OIC&nbsp;had said it was against the interests of the Islamic community to convene meetings outside the&nbsp;Saudi-based organisation, which has for decades acted as the collective voice of the&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;world.

Both Mahathir and Erdogan have been frustrated by the&nbsp;OIC's past record of hand-wringing and failure to take firm action in support of&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;causes.

Without mentioning the&nbsp;OIC&nbsp;by name, Erdogan said the biggest problem that platforms bringing the Islamic world together faced was a lack of implementation.

"If we still haven't made any progress regarding the Palestinian cause, if we still can't stop the exploitation of our resources, if we still can't say "stop" to the fragmentation of the&nbsp;Muslim&nbsp;world over sectarianism, that's why.”

Some analysts also suspected that&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia's reluctance to attend stemmed from the fear of being diplomatically isolated by regional rivals Iran, Qatar and Turkey, all of whom are attending the&nbsp;summit.

Worried about taking sides, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan opted to stay away from the Kuala Lumpur&nbsp;summit.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Kuala Lumpur Summit &amp; The Race For Supremacy In Muslim World

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"Pakistan wants to become part of the solution and not part of the problem," Information Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan told reporters in Islamabad.

Hosting a summit of Muslim leaders, Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad bemoaned the state of Islam and defended the meeting that has been shunned by Saudi Arabia and criticised for undermining the bigger Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

Hosting a summit of Muslim leaders, Malaysia's Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad bemoaned the state of Islam and defended the meeting that has been shunned by Saudi Arabia and criticised for undermining the bigger Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Divisions in the Muslim world were self-evident as only about 20 countries sent leaders, or delegations to the Kuala Lumpur summit, though all 57 members of the OIC had been invited. The Saudi King's refusal to attend and the late withdrawal of Pakistan from the event had left the hosts scrambling to soothe sensitive relations. In welcoming remarks, Mahathir said the Kuala Lumpur Summit was meant to understand why Islam, the Muslims and their countries were "in a state of crisis, helpless and unworthy of this great religion". It was unclear to what extent the leaders would discuss major geopolitical crises afflicting the Muslim world, ranging from the age-old disputes in the Middle East and Kashmir to the conflicts in Syria and Yemen, through to the plight of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar and the alleged persecution of Uighur Muslims in China's Xinjiang region. Mahathir said the summit, which will end on Saturday, should address the world's perceptions of Islam, the rise of Islamophobia, the decline of the Islamic civilisation and reforms in governance needed by Muslim nations. "We are not discriminating or isolating anyone," he said in his welcome speech, watched on by leaders including Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamid Al-Thani. "We are attempting to start small and if these ideas, proposals and solutions are acceptable and proved workable, then we hope to take it up to the larger platform for consideration." Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan struck a similar tone. "We will have the opportunity to talk freely about our issues, from Islamophobia to terrorism, divisions, internal fights ravaging our region, and sectarian and ethnic conflicts,” Erdogan told the summit. The OIC had said it was against the interests of the Islamic community to convene meetings outside the Saudi-based organisation, which has for decades acted as the collective voice of the Muslim world. Both Mahathir and Erdogan have been frustrated by the OIC's past record of hand-wringing and failure to take firm action in support of Muslim causes. Without mentioning the OIC by name, Erdogan said the biggest problem that platforms bringing the Islamic world together faced was a lack of implementation. "If we still haven't made any progress regarding the Palestinian cause, if we still can't stop the exploitation of our resources, if we still can't say "stop" to the fragmentation of the Muslim world over sectarianism, that's why.” Some analysts also suspected that Saudi Arabia's reluctance to attend stemmed from the fear of being diplomatically isolated by regional rivals Iran, Qatar and Turkey, all of whom are attending the summit. Worried about taking sides, Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan opted to stay away from the Kuala Lumpur summit. Also Watch: Kuala Lumpur Summit & The Race For Supremacy In Muslim World × "Pakistan wants to become part of the solution and not part of the problem," Information Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan told reporters in Islamabad.

Malaysia defends Muslim summit shunned by Saudi, slammed by OIC

Malaysian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-mahathir-says-hong-kong-leader-should-step-down-253709">Mahathir Mohamad</a> said on Monday his exports-reliant country could be hit with trade sanctions amid rising protectionism highlighted by the United States-China tariff war.

Mahathir did not mention the source of possible sanctions on the Southeast Asian country but said he was disappointed that proponents of free trade were now indulging in restrictive trade practices on a "grand scale".

"Unfortunately, we are caught in the middle," he told a conference in the capital Kuala Lumpur, referring to the US-China trade war.

"Economically we are linked to both markets, and physically we are also caught in between for geographical reasons. There is even suggestion that we ourselves would be a target for sanctions."

The United States and China were two of the three biggest export destinations for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-mahathir-meet-zakir-naik-revocation-of-article-370-discussed-247711">Malaysia</a> between January and August this year. Singapore was the top destination.

To cushion the impact of the collision between the superpowers, Mahathir said Malaysia was collaborating more with its regional neighbours.

Mahathir also complained of being bullied by powerful nations, referring to a campaign by European countries against Malaysia's agricultural mainstay of palm oil. The edible oil contributed 2.8 per cent&nbsp;of Malaysia's gross domestic product last year and 4.5 per cent&nbsp;to total exports.

"Having cleared most of their forests and refusing to reduce their noxious emissions, they now try to impoverish the poor by preventing them from clearing their forest for living space and earning a living," he said.

The European Union passed an act earlier this year to phase out palm oil from renewable fuel by 2030 due to deforestation concerns.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Monday his exports-reliant country could be hit with trade sanctions amid rising protectionism highlighted by the United States-China tariff war.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Monday his exports-reliant country could be hit with trade sanctions amid rising protectionism highlighted by the United States-China tariff war. Mahathir did not mention the source of possible sanctions on the Southeast Asian country but said he was disappointed that proponents of free trade were now indulging in restrictive trade practices on a "grand scale". "Unfortunately, we are caught in the middle," he told a conference in the capital Kuala Lumpur, referring to the US-China trade war. "Economically we are linked to both markets, and physically we are also caught in between for geographical reasons. There is even suggestion that we ourselves would be a target for sanctions." The United States and China were two of the three biggest export destinations for Malaysia between January and August this year. Singapore was the top destination. To cushion the impact of the collision between the superpowers, Mahathir said Malaysia was collaborating more with its regional neighbours. Mahathir also complained of being bullied by powerful nations, referring to a campaign by European countries against Malaysia's agricultural mainstay of palm oil. The edible oil contributed 2.8 per cent of Malaysia's gross domestic product last year and 4.5 per cent to total exports. "Having cleared most of their forests and refusing to reduce their noxious emissions, they now try to impoverish the poor by preventing them from clearing their forest for living space and earning a living," he said. The European Union passed an act earlier this year to phase out palm oil from renewable fuel by 2030 due to deforestation concerns.

Mahathir warns of possible trade sanctions on Malaysia

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday Hong Kong leader<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-invokes-emergency-powers-to-quell-escalating-violence-253684"> Carrie Lam</a> should step down following months of protests against her government and he predicted China would take action to end the demonstrations.

Growing opposition to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-government-to-meet-today-to-discuss-face-mask-ban-at-protests-253612">Hong Kong government</a> has plunged the financial hub into its biggest political crisis in decades and poses the gravest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Speaking at a conference in Kuala Lumpur, Mahathir, referring to Beijing, said Lam "has to obey the masters and at the same time she has to ask her conscience."

"I think best thing is to resign," Mahathir said, according to a recording of comments, heard by Reuters, that he made when asked what advice he might give Lam.

Watch Video: Carrie Lam invokes emergency powers to try to quell escalating violence

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Mahathir also said he expected China to take action against the protesters, drawing a parallel to student protests in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peoples-republic-of-china-celebrates-70th-anniversary-in-beijing-253107/amp">Tiananmen Square</a> in 1989.

"Yes, they allowed you to demonstrate and all that but eventually in a system that is authoritarian they will come back and do what they have to do," he said.

Mahathir, 94, is one of Asia's most experienced and outspoken leaders. He was prime minister for 22 years from 1981, only to come out of retirement last year to head a government after an opposition election victory.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-protests-as-hong-kong-government-mulls-face-mask-ban-253638">protests </a>in Hong Kong began over a now-withdrawn extradition bill, which would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial, and have intensified markedly since June. They have also evolved into wider calls for democracy, among other demands.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy in the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong returned to China in 1997.

China dismisses accusations it is meddling and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of stirring up the anti-China sentiment.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam should step down following months of protests against her government and he predicted China would take action to end the demonstrations.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said on Friday Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam should step down following months of protests against her government and he predicted China would take action to end the demonstrations. Growing opposition to the Hong Kong government has plunged the financial hub into its biggest political crisis in decades and poses the gravest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Speaking at a conference in Kuala Lumpur, Mahathir, referring to Beijing, said Lam "has to obey the masters and at the same time she has to ask her conscience." "I think best thing is to resign," Mahathir said, according to a recording of comments, heard by Reuters, that he made when asked what advice he might give Lam. Watch Video: Carrie Lam invokes emergency powers to try to quell escalating violence × Mahathir also said he expected China to take action against the protesters, drawing a parallel to student protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989. "Yes, they allowed you to demonstrate and all that but eventually in a system that is authoritarian they will come back and do what they have to do," he said. Mahathir, 94, is one of Asia's most experienced and outspoken leaders. He was prime minister for 22 years from 1981, only to come out of retirement last year to head a government after an opposition election victory. The protests in Hong Kong began over a now-withdrawn extradition bill, which would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial, and have intensified markedly since June. They have also evolved into wider calls for democracy, among other demands. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy in the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong returned to China in 1997. China dismisses accusations it is meddling and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of stirring up the anti-China sentiment.

I think best thing for Hong Kong's Carrie Lam is to resign: Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday reached Malaysia on a two-day visit. During his interaction with the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Khan mentioned about long-standing ties between Pakistan and Malaysia adding that he was "pleased with the morning discourse" with PM Mahathir. Khan said that Pakistan can learn how to tap tourism potential from Malaysia.&nbsp;

"We exchanged views about trade, a particular interest for Pakistan is we have this huge untapped tourism potential and Malaysia has developed tourism resorts which we really want to have (in) place in Pakistan because we have tourism sports but we don't have resorts," Imran Khan said.

The Malaysian Prime Minister welcomed Imran Khan and said that Pakistan and Malaysia have similar internal problems. He added that both the leaders "discussed these issues and ways and means of tackling them," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"Pakistan and Malaysia had a long relationship and mostly there has been a closer relationship and we have also been trading with each other. But we find that we have some internal problems which are similar within Malaysia and Pakistan and I had a four-eyed meeting with the Prime Minister. We discussed these issues and ways and means of tackling them," the Malaysian Prime Minister stated.

Pakistan's Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-arrives-in-malaysia-on-two-day-official-visit-likely-to-seek-monetary-aid-178514">Imran Khan is on a two-day official visit to Malaysia</a> where he is likely to seek monetary assistance to minimise cash-strapped Pakistan's dependence on an IMF bailout package.

Prime Minister Khan is accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Finance Minister Asad Umer, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry and Adviser on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood, Radio Pakistan reported.

This is Khan's first bilateral visit to Malaysia after assuming office in August.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday reached Malaysia on a two-day visit. During his interaction with the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Khan mentioned about long-standing ties between Pakistan and Malaysia adding that he was "pleased with the morning discourse" with PM Mahathir.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday reached Malaysia on a two-day visit. During his interaction with the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Khan mentioned about long-standing ties between Pakistan and Malaysia adding that he was "pleased with the morning discourse" with PM Mahathir. Khan said that Pakistan can learn how to tap tourism potential from Malaysia. "We exchanged views about trade, a particular interest for Pakistan is we have this huge untapped tourism potential and Malaysia has developed tourism resorts which we really want to have (in) place in Pakistan because we have tourism sports but we don't have resorts," Imran Khan said. The Malaysian Prime Minister welcomed Imran Khan and said that Pakistan and Malaysia have similar internal problems. He added that both the leaders "discussed these issues and ways and means of tackling them," news agency Reuters reported. "Pakistan and Malaysia had a long relationship and mostly there has been a closer relationship and we have also been trading with each other. But we find that we have some internal problems which are similar within Malaysia and Pakistan and I had a four-eyed meeting with the Prime Minister. We discussed these issues and ways and means of tackling them," the Malaysian Prime Minister stated. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan is on a two-day official visit to Malaysia where he is likely to seek monetary assistance to minimise cash-strapped Pakistan's dependence on an IMF bailout package. Prime Minister Khan is accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Finance Minister Asad Umer, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry and Adviser on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood, Radio Pakistan reported. This is Khan's first bilateral visit to Malaysia after assuming office in August. (With inputs from Reuters)

Imran Khan says Pakistan could learn to tap tourism potential from Malaysia

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito.

The 93-year-old, who is on his third trip to Japan since taking office in May, received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, traditionally conferred on politicians, former prime ministers, ministers, diplomats and judges at the Imperial palace and directly from the Emperor.

Other foreign statesmen to receive the prize included Singapore's founding father, the late Lee Kuan Yew, and India's former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

It was expected to be the last award ceremony conducted by Akihito before he abdicates on April 30, 2019.

After the ceremony, Mahathir sat down for talks with his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe. The pair reportedly discussed the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement, as well as various investments and regional issues.

Mahathir later told media he felt honoured to receive the award, and added that he is looking to enhance his "Look East" policy, which aims to strengthen ties with east Asia, with the cooperation of Japan, particularly in the field of education.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito.

Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad was one of ten people in Tokyo on Tuesday (November 6) to receive one of Japan's most prestigious awards from Emperor Akihito. The 93-year-old, who is on his third trip to Japan since taking office in May, received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, traditionally conferred on politicians, former prime ministers, ministers, diplomats and judges at the Imperial palace and directly from the Emperor. Other foreign statesmen to receive the prize included Singapore's founding father, the late Lee Kuan Yew, and India's former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. It was expected to be the last award ceremony conducted by Akihito before he abdicates on April 30, 2019. After the ceremony, Mahathir sat down for talks with his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe. The pair reportedly discussed the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement, as well as various investments and regional issues. Mahathir later told media he felt honoured to receive the award, and added that he is looking to enhance his "Look East" policy, which aims to strengthen ties with east Asia, with the cooperation of Japan, particularly in the field of education.

Malaysia's Mahathir visits Tokyo, meets Japan's Emperor and PM Abe

Malaysia's&nbspMahathir&nbspMohamad has never lost an election campaign. He maintained that record and created another one on Thursday when, at 92, he was set to be sworn in as the world's oldest elected leader.

"Yes, yes, I am still alive," a sprightly looking&nbspMahathir&nbspsaid at a 3 a.m. news conference in which he claimed victory over the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition that has ruled the Southeast Asian nation since independence six decades ago.

Mahathir&nbspled the coalition as Malaysia's prime minister for 22 years, starting in 1981. As one of the country's most eminent leaders, he was pugnacious, uncompromising and intolerant of dissent, but turned Malaysia from a sleepy backwater into one of the world's modern industrialised nations.

He was never far from the headlines in retirement, and two years ago he came back to active politics, this time in the ranks of the opposition, vowing to oust his protege Najib Razak from the prime minister's chair over a financial scandal at the state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

In his crusade,&nbspMahathir&nbspeventually quit the ruling United Malay National Organisation (UMNO) party, which he had helped build, and ceded all his government advisory roles.

"During his time, I was a strong opponent of&nbspMahathir," said Joseph Paul, 70, a retired social worker who joined thousands of people in the capital Kuala Lumpur to celebrateMahathir's win.

"Well, politics they say is the art of the possible, so if he comes in to get rid of another evil, why not?"

Official results early on Thursday showed that&nbspMahathir's Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) had won 113 of parliament's 222 seats, clinching the simple majority required to rule in the country's most stunning election result. The nonagenarian is scheduled to be sworn in as prime minister later in the day.

In his earlier stint as prime minister,&nbspMahathir's aggressive diplomacy needled countries like Britain and the United States, with comments such as one, on the eve of his retirement, that Jews ruled the world by proxy.

He was once described as a "menace to his country" by financier George Soros, whom&nbspMahathir&nbspfamously derided as a "moron" in an attack on foreign currency traders during the Asian financial crisis of 1998.

He also spent years squabbling with his old rival and another towering figure in Asian politics, the late Singapore leader Lee Kuan Yew.

MODERNISATION

Mahathir&nbspgrew up in the rural heartland of Malaysia, then a British colony, witnessing severe food shortages during the 1930s Great Depression.

Mahathir&nbspwas a medical doctor before becoming Malaysia's fourth prime minister in 1981 and kicking off a mission of modernisation.

Bridges and six-lane highways crisscrossed Malaysia in his development blitz, capped off with a lavish new administrative capital, and the world's tallest structure when it was built, the 88-storey Petronas twin towers in the capital, Kuala Lumpur.

The activity helped win&nbspMahathir&nbspthe title "Father of Modern Malaysia," but he was known for his strongarm rule, although he fell short of some southeast Asian peers in ruthlessness.

Mahathir&nbspused security laws to put his political opponents behind bars. His critics say he restricted free speech and persecuted political opponents - none more so than his former deputy, Anwar Ibrahim, who remains in jail on charges of sodomy and corruption.

Mahathir&nbsphas joined hands with Anwar in this campaign and has promised to seek a royal pardon for him. He has vowed to then step aside and let Anwar be prime minister.

Mahathir&nbspwas masterly in playing to the feelings of the mainly Muslim ethnic Malay majority. His 1970 book, "The Malay Dilemma", argued that ethnic Malays, whom he called the nation's rightful owners, were being eclipsed economically by ethnic Chinese.

Faced with a leadership challenge after just five years in office,&nbspMahathir&nbspdetained more than 100 opposition politicians, academics and social activists without trial, under internal security laws.

During the 1998 Asian financial crisis, he took a huge gamble in tackling twin economic and political crises by sacking Anwar and then going against the advice of the International Monetary Fund to impose capital and currency controls that saved the economy.

Anwar took on&nbspMahathir, turning overnight into an opposition politician, bringing tens of thousands of people onto the streets, shouting "Reformasi".

Anwar was later charged with sodomy and corruption, but&nbspMahathir&nbspdenied orchestrating the charges. After his release, he was jailed again during Najib's rule on the same charges.

Mahathir&nbspcontinued to wield power in UMNO even after he handed over in 2003. He backed Najib, the son of Malaysia's second prime minister, as the premier in 2009.

But in 2015 he urged Najib to step down over the corruption scandal at state fund 1MDB.

In an interview in March, he said he would keep up the battle against Najib even if he lost this election.

"I will be in my late 90s and physically not as strong," he said. "But if I am well enough, I will continue the struggle."

He also seems to have accepted he made mistakes in rule, writing in a blog post in January that people and the media never failed to point out he presided over an authoritarian government for 22 years.

"Looking back now, I realise why, as Prime Minister of Malaysia I was described as a dictator,"&nbspMahathir&nbspwrote. "There were many things I did which were typically dictatorial."

&nbsp

As one of the country's most eminent leaders, he was pugnacious, uncompromising and intolerant of dissent, but turned Malaysia from a sleepy backwater into one of the world's modern industrialised nations

Malaysia's&nbspMahathir&nbspMohamad has never lost an election campaign. He maintained that record and created another one on Thursday when, at 92, he was set to be sworn in as the world's oldest elected leader. "Yes, yes, I am still alive," a sprightly looking&nbspMahathir&nbspsaid at a 3 a.m. news conference in which he claimed victory over the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition that has ruled the Southeast Asian nation since independence six decades ago. Mahathir&nbspled the coalition as Malaysia's prime minister for 22 years, starting in 1981. As one of the country's most eminent leaders, he was pugnacious, uncompromising and intolerant of dissent, but turned Malaysia from a sleepy backwater into one of the world's modern industrialised nations. He was never far from the headlines in retirement, and two years ago he came back to active politics, this time in the ranks of the opposition, vowing to oust his protege Najib Razak from the prime minister's chair over a financial scandal at the state investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). In his crusade,&nbspMahathir&nbspeventually quit the ruling United Malay National Organisation (UMNO) party, which he had helped build, and ceded all his government advisory roles. "During his time, I was a strong opponent of&nbspMahathir," said Joseph Paul, 70, a retired social worker who joined thousands of people in the capital Kuala Lumpur to celebrateMahathir's win. "Well, politics they say is the art of the possible, so if he comes in to get rid of another evil, why not?" Official results early on Thursday showed that&nbspMahathir's Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) had won 113 of parliament's 222 seats, clinching the simple majority required to rule in the country's most stunning election result. The nonagenarian is scheduled to be sworn in as prime minister later in the day. In his earlier stint as prime minister,&nbspMahathir's aggressive diplomacy needled countries like Britain and the United States, with comments such as one, on the eve of his retirement, that Jews ruled the world by proxy. He was once described as a "menace to his country" by financier George Soros, whom&nbspMahathir&nbspfamously derided as a "moron" in an attack on foreign currency traders during the Asian financial crisis of 1998. He also spent years squabbling with his old rival and another towering figure in Asian politics, the late Singapore leader Lee Kuan Yew. MODERNISATION Mahathir&nbspgrew up in the rural heartland of Malaysia, then a British colony, witnessing severe food shortages during the 1930s Great Depression. Mahathir&nbspwas a medical doctor before becoming Malaysia's fourth prime minister in 1981 and kicking off a mission of modernisation. Bridges and six-lane highways crisscrossed Malaysia in his development blitz, capped off with a lavish new administrative capital, and the world's tallest structure when it was built, the 88-storey Petronas twin towers in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. The activity helped win&nbspMahathir&nbspthe title "Father of Modern Malaysia," but he was known for his strongarm rule, although he fell short of some southeast Asian peers in ruthlessness. Mahathir&nbspused security laws to put his political opponents behind bars. His critics say he restricted free speech and persecuted political opponents - none more so than his former deputy, Anwar Ibrahim, who remains in jail on charges of sodomy and corruption. Mahathir&nbsphas joined hands with Anwar in this campaign and has promised to seek a royal pardon for him. He has vowed to then step aside and let Anwar be prime minister. Mahathir&nbspwas masterly in playing to the feelings of the mainly Muslim ethnic Malay majority. His 1970 book, "The Malay Dilemma", argued that ethnic Malays, whom he called the nation's rightful owners, were being eclipsed economically by ethnic Chinese. Faced with a leadership challenge after just five years in office,&nbspMahathir&nbspdetained more than 100 opposition politicians, academics and social activists without trial, under internal security laws. During the 1998 Asian financial crisis, he took a huge gamble in tackling twin economic and political crises by sacking Anwar and then going against the advice of the International Monetary Fund to impose capital and currency controls that saved the economy. Anwar took on&nbspMahathir, turning overnight into an opposition politician, bringing tens of thousands of people onto the streets, shouting "Reformasi". Anwar was later charged with sodomy and corruption, but&nbspMahathir&nbspdenied orchestrating the charges. After his release, he was jailed again during Najib's rule on the same charges. Mahathir&nbspcontinued to wield power in UMNO even after he handed over in 2003. He backed Najib, the son of Malaysia's second prime minister, as the premier in 2009. But in 2015 he urged Najib to step down over the corruption scandal at state fund 1MDB. In an interview in March, he said he would keep up the battle against Najib even if he lost this election. "I will be in my late 90s and physically not as strong," he said. "But if I am well enough, I will continue the struggle." He also seems to have accepted he made mistakes in rule, writing in a blog post in January that people and the media never failed to point out he presided over an authoritarian government for 22 years. "Looking back now, I realise why, as Prime Minister of Malaysia I was described as a dictator,"&nbspMahathir&nbspwrote. "There were many things I did which were typically dictatorial."

At 92, former strongman Mahathir is Malaysia's comeback kid

Ninety-two-year-old Mahathir Mohamad was Thursday sworn in as the world's oldest elected leader after a stunning election win that swept Malaysia's establishment from power after more than six decades.

In a huge political upset, former strongman Mahathir's opposition alliance broke the grip on power of the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, which had governed Malaysia uninterrupted since its birth as an independent country in 1957.

It capped a dramatic comeback for Mahathir, who previously ruled the country with an iron fist for 22 years and came out of retirement to take on Prime Minister Najib Razak after the leader became embroiled in a massive corruption scandal.

In a ceremony at the national palace steeped in centuries-old Muslim Malay tradition, Mahathir was officially sworn in as prime minister by King Sultan Muhammad V.

Mahathir, wearing traditional Malay dress, took the oath of office in an elaborately decorated room, with political allies and senior government officials in attendance.

As he was inaugurated, hundreds of revellers outside the palace cheered and sang the national anthem, with some breaking down in tears. Fireworks lit up the night sky across Kuala Lumpur.

"We feel so united tonight," 24-year-old student Abdul Aziz Hamzah, who was among the crowd, told AFP. "Mahathir is so insightful and experienced because he's been here before."&nbsp

One of the most remarkable aspects of Mahathir's comeback has been his reconciliation with jailed opposition icon Anwar Ibrahim, his former nemesis. Their relationship has loomed large over the Malaysian political landscape for decades.

Anwar was Mahathir's heir-apparent until the premier sacked him in 1998 over political differences, and he was subsequently jailed on charges of sodomy and abuse of power.&nbsp

Anwar was jailed again during Najib's rule but is due out in June -- and Mahathir has pledged to help him get a royal pardon, allowing him to run for political office again and potentially become prime minister.

'Waiting so long'

The opposition faced an uphill battle at the election due to what critics said were no-holds-barred attempts by Najib to hang on to power.&nbsp

His government was accused of gerrymandering while activists said he hurled cash and gifts at voters and there was a litany of problems with the electoral roll, including dead people appearing on the list.

Najib called the vote mid-week, in what critics said was an effort to keep turnout down -- elections are normally held at a weekend in Malaysia. But in the end voters flocked to the polls in droves in a determined bid to push him out.

As it became clear that BN was facing a historic wipeout, Najib disappeared for hours and only surfaced Thursday morning to tell a press conference that he accepted the people's will, but refused to offer a clear concession of defeat.

His comments were slammed by one analyst as "unstatesmanlike".

The opposition's shock victory triggered euphoria and a sense of relief that a leader who was accused of massive graft and fanning racial tensions in the multi-ethnic country was finally on his way out.

"We have been waiting for so long for this to happen," Larson Michael, 35, a voter from just outside Kuala Lumpur, told AFP.

"(Mahathir) has come back to help us regain the country. Now we want to see if he will fulfil... his promises."

The initial delight at the opposition victory will likely give way to some apprehension. Mahathir was also accused of being an authoritarian leader, and political opponents were thrown in jail during his time in office.

Najib's defeat could be just the start of his problems -- Mahathir has vowed to bring him to justice over allegations that billions of dollars were looted from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, which the scandal-hit leader set up and oversaw.

In Mahathir, the opposition found the perfect person to take on Najib.&nbsp

He is a staunch supporter of the country's Muslim Malays who could appeal to the country's biggest ethnic group, and whose years in power were remembered as a prosperous period in the country's history. 
&nbsp

The stunning election win swept Malaysia's establishment from power after more than six decades

Ninety-two-year-old Mahathir Mohamad was Thursday sworn in as the world's oldest elected leader after a stunning election win that swept Malaysia's establishment from power after more than six decades. In a huge political upset, former strongman Mahathir's opposition alliance broke the grip on power of the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, which had governed Malaysia uninterrupted since its birth as an independent country in 1957. It capped a dramatic comeback for Mahathir, who previously ruled the country with an iron fist for 22 years and came out of retirement to take on Prime Minister Najib Razak after the leader became embroiled in a massive corruption scandal. In a ceremony at the national palace steeped in centuries-old Muslim Malay tradition, Mahathir was officially sworn in as prime minister by King Sultan Muhammad V. Mahathir, wearing traditional Malay dress, took the oath of office in an elaborately decorated room, with political allies and senior government officials in attendance. As he was inaugurated, hundreds of revellers outside the palace cheered and sang the national anthem, with some breaking down in tears. Fireworks lit up the night sky across Kuala Lumpur. "We feel so united tonight," 24-year-old student Abdul Aziz Hamzah, who was among the crowd, told AFP. "Mahathir is so insightful and experienced because he's been here before." One of the most remarkable aspects of Mahathir's comeback has been his reconciliation with jailed opposition icon Anwar Ibrahim, his former nemesis. Their relationship has loomed large over the Malaysian political landscape for decades. Anwar was Mahathir's heir-apparent until the premier sacked him in 1998 over political differences, and he was subsequently jailed on charges of sodomy and abuse of power. Anwar was jailed again during Najib's rule but is due out in June -- and Mahathir has pledged to help him get a royal pardon, allowing him to run for political office again and potentially become prime minister. 'Waiting so long' The opposition faced an uphill battle at the election due to what critics said were no-holds-barred attempts by Najib to hang on to power. His government was accused of gerrymandering while activists said he hurled cash and gifts at voters and there was a litany of problems with the electoral roll, including dead people appearing on the list. Najib called the vote mid-week, in what critics said was an effort to keep turnout down -- elections are normally held at a weekend in Malaysia. But in the end voters flocked to the polls in droves in a determined bid to push him out. As it became clear that BN was facing a historic wipeout, Najib disappeared for hours and only surfaced Thursday morning to tell a press conference that he accepted the people's will, but refused to offer a clear concession of defeat. His comments were slammed by one analyst as "unstatesmanlike". The opposition's shock victory triggered euphoria and a sense of relief that a leader who was accused of massive graft and fanning racial tensions in the multi-ethnic country was finally on his way out. "We have been waiting for so long for this to happen," Larson Michael, 35, a voter from just outside Kuala Lumpur, told AFP. "(Mahathir) has come back to help us regain the country. Now we want to see if he will fulfil... his promises." The initial delight at the opposition victory will likely give way to some apprehension. Mahathir was also accused of being an authoritarian leader, and political opponents were thrown in jail during his time in office. Najib's defeat could be just the start of his problems -- Mahathir has vowed to bring him to justice over allegations that billions of dollars were looted from sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, which the scandal-hit leader set up and oversaw. In Mahathir, the opposition found the perfect person to take on Najib. He is a staunch supporter of the country's Muslim Malays who could appeal to the country's biggest ethnic group, and whose years in power were remembered as a prosperous period in the country's history.

Malaysia's Mahathir sworn in as world's oldest leader after shock poll win

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has won a historc victory making him the olderst as well as the longest serving Prime Minister in Malaysia.&nbsp;

Mahathir, 92, defeated the Barisan Nasional coalition, which has been in power 60 years.With all 222 seats in the country's Parliament accounted for, Mahathir's coalition had officially won 121 seats -- enough to form a simple majority and take control of the House. Barisan Nasional, in contrast, only had 79 seats -- a far cry from the 133 it won in the 2013 election.

Mahathir led the Southeast Asian nation for 22 years and his unexpected return to the prime ministership ends the previously unbroken rule of Barisan Nasional (BN), the coalition that had governed Malaysia since independence from Britain in 1957.

"We are not seeking revenge ... what we want is to restore the rule of law," Mahathir said of Najib's scandal-plagued rule.&nbsp;

The swearing-in ceremoney will be held on Thursday which has been marked as a public holiday in Malaysia, the government announced.

Najib is also expected to address the media at 9.45 a.m. local time (0145 GMT). He has not spoken publicly since the results were declared but a member of his Cabinet said they would accept the will of the people.

Najib had been under massive pressure in the run up to the elections, chiefly due to long-running allegations of corruption and misappropriation of money from a state fund, known as the 1Malaysia Development Berhad, but also because of deeply unpopular moves such as the introduction of a goods and services tax (GST), which many Malaysians feel has caused the cost of living to spike sharply.

The stunning election outcome was expected to ruffle financial markets that were expecting a comfortable win for Najib and the BN.

In the previous election, in 2013, the opposition made unprecedented gains, winning the popular vote, but it failed to win enough seats to form a government.

CREDIT WARNING

Mahathir's alliance, which counts on urban votes and support from the minority ethnic Chinese and Indian communities, had hoped the veteran Malay leader would win over voters usually loyal to BN. That strategy appeared to have paid off.

Official results showed that Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) won 113 of parliament's 222 seats, clinching the simple majority required to rule. Najib's BN coalition only managed 79 seats.

Mahathir has promised to reverse a goods and services tax (GST) introduced by Najib during his first 100 days in power and review foreign investments.

Global ratings agency Moody's said some of his campaign promises, including the GST and a reintroduction of fuel subsidies, could be credit negative for Malaysia's sovereign debt rating.

Mahathir was once Najib's mentor but they clashed after differences over the 1MDB graft scandal, in which billions of dollars were allegedly siphoned off to foreign countries.

The scandal is being investigated by at least six countries, although Malaysia's attorney general cleared Najib of any wrongdoing.

Mahathir vowed to investigate the scandal if elected and to bring the funds back to Malaysia.

Asked on Thursday if Najib would be prosecuted, Mahathir said: "If anybody breaks the law, and that includes a journalist, they will be brought before the court."

Mahathir must now manage a fractious alliance of four parties and make way for jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim to become the next prime minister, another former protege with whom he split acrimoniously before reuniting to topple Najib.

"I have to manage presidents of four different parties. It's going to be a headache," Mahathir told reporters.

Mahathir, 92, defeated the Barisan Nasional coalition, which has been in power 60 years

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has won a historc victory making him the olderst as well as the longest serving Prime Minister in Malaysia. Mahathir, 92, defeated the Barisan Nasional coalition, which has been in power 60 years.With all 222 seats in the country's Parliament accounted for, Mahathir's coalition had officially won 121 seats -- enough to form a simple majority and take control of the House. Barisan Nasional, in contrast, only had 79 seats -- a far cry from the 133 it won in the 2013 election. Mahathir led the Southeast Asian nation for 22 years and his unexpected return to the prime ministership ends the previously unbroken rule of Barisan Nasional (BN), the coalition that had governed Malaysia since independence from Britain in 1957. "We are not seeking revenge ... what we want is to restore the rule of law," Mahathir said of Najib's scandal-plagued rule. The swearing-in ceremoney will be held on Thursday which has been marked as a public holiday in Malaysia, the government announced. Najib is also expected to address the media at 9.45 a.m. local time (0145 GMT). He has not spoken publicly since the results were declared but a member of his Cabinet said they would accept the will of the people. Najib had been under massive pressure in the run up to the elections, chiefly due to long-running allegations of corruption and misappropriation of money from a state fund, known as the 1Malaysia Development Berhad, but also because of deeply unpopular moves such as the introduction of a goods and services tax (GST), which many Malaysians feel has caused the cost of living to spike sharply. The stunning election outcome was expected to ruffle financial markets that were expecting a comfortable win for Najib and the BN. In the previous election, in 2013, the opposition made unprecedented gains, winning the popular vote, but it failed to win enough seats to form a government. CREDIT WARNING Mahathir's alliance, which counts on urban votes and support from the minority ethnic Chinese and Indian communities, had hoped the veteran Malay leader would win over voters usually loyal to BN. That strategy appeared to have paid off. Official results showed that Mahathir's Pakatan Harapan (Alliance of Hope) won 113 of parliament's 222 seats, clinching the simple majority required to rule. Najib's BN coalition only managed 79 seats. Mahathir has promised to reverse a goods and services tax (GST) introduced by Najib during his first 100 days in power and review foreign investments. Global ratings agency Moody's said some of his campaign promises, including the GST and a reintroduction of fuel subsidies, could be credit negative for Malaysia's sovereign debt rating. Mahathir was once Najib's mentor but they clashed after differences over the 1MDB graft scandal, in which billions of dollars were allegedly siphoned off to foreign countries. The scandal is being investigated by at least six countries, although Malaysia's attorney general cleared Najib of any wrongdoing. Mahathir vowed to investigate the scandal if elected and to bring the funds back to Malaysia. Asked on Thursday if Najib would be prosecuted, Mahathir said: "If anybody breaks the law, and that includes a journalist, they will be brought before the court." Mahathir must now manage a fractious alliance of four parties and make way for jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim to become the next prime minister, another former protege with whom he split acrimoniously before reuniting to topple Najib. "I have to manage presidents of four different parties. It's going to be a headache," Mahathir told reporters.

Malaysia's Mahathir Mohamad to be sworn-in as PM after historic poll win

Jailed Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday urged voters to choose his former political nemesis, Mahathir Mohamad, less than 24 hours ahead of the most hotly contested general election in the country's history.

Scandal-hit Prime Minister Najib Razak, whose Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance has ruled Malaysia for more than six decades, is pitted in a duel against the charismatic duo, Anwar and Mahathir, who have joined forces to oust him.

Najib's alliance faces far greater risks this time than in any previous election, and analysts have warned a weak performance could trigger an internal revolt against the 64-year-old Najib.

"I urge you all to join the people's movement to demand for change," Anwar said in a statement from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur, the capital, where he is recovering from a shoulder operation.

Though still serving his jail term, Anwar has been in hospital for the last few months. He began a five-year sentence for sodomy in 2015, on a charge he and his supporters say was politically motivated, and is expected to be released early on June 8.

Anwar, 70, was first jailed after Mahathir sacked him as deputy prime minister in 1998.

He then started a movement known as "Reformasi', or reform, aiming to end BN's race- and patronage-based governance. But Anwar was stopped in his tracks by charges of sodomy and graft, which he denied, but was jailed for.

Last year, in a dramatic change of heart, both leaders buried their feud and agreed to join forces with the aim of unseating Najib.

Anwar said his partnership with Mahathir was the ruling party's "biggest worry".

"Mahathir has proven his tenacity, accepted past limitations, apologised and sacrificed his time and energy to raise the dignity of the people and the country," Anwar said.

But in an interview on pro-government television late on Monday, Najib said he was confident of winning the election.

"Our political base is still strong and intact. That is why I am confident, because we actually have strength," said Najib, whose popularity has taken a hit from rising costs and a graft scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

Najib has consistently denied any wrongdoing over the billions of dollars allegedly siphoned off from the state fund, which he founded, and he has been cleared of any offence by Malaysia's attorney general.

Najib is set to broadcast live on state media at 1400 GMT. At the same time, Mahathir will livestream his speech from a rally in his constituency in Langkawi.

They will be the leaders' final speeches before polls open on Wednesday.

Scandal-hit Prime Minister Najib Razak, whose Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance has ruled Malaysia for more than six decades, is pitted in a duel against the charismatic duo, Anwar and Mahathir, who have joined forces to oust him

Jailed Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim on Tuesday urged voters to choose his former political nemesis, Mahathir Mohamad, less than 24 hours ahead of the most hotly contested general election in the country's history. Scandal-hit Prime Minister Najib Razak, whose Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance has ruled Malaysia for more than six decades, is pitted in a duel against the charismatic duo, Anwar and Mahathir, who have joined forces to oust him. Najib's alliance faces far greater risks this time than in any previous election, and analysts have warned a weak performance could trigger an internal revolt against the 64-year-old Najib. "I urge you all to join the people's movement to demand for change," Anwar said in a statement from a hospital in Kuala Lumpur, the capital, where he is recovering from a shoulder operation. Though still serving his jail term, Anwar has been in hospital for the last few months. He began a five-year sentence for sodomy in 2015, on a charge he and his supporters say was politically motivated, and is expected to be released early on June 8. Anwar, 70, was first jailed after Mahathir sacked him as deputy prime minister in 1998. He then started a movement known as "Reformasi', or reform, aiming to end BN's race- and patronage-based governance. But Anwar was stopped in his tracks by charges of sodomy and graft, which he denied, but was jailed for. Last year, in a dramatic change of heart, both leaders buried their feud and agreed to join forces with the aim of unseating Najib. Anwar said his partnership with Mahathir was the ruling party's "biggest worry". "Mahathir has proven his tenacity, accepted past limitations, apologised and sacrificed his time and energy to raise the dignity of the people and the country," Anwar said. But in an interview on pro-government television late on Monday, Najib said he was confident of winning the election. "Our political base is still strong and intact. That is why I am confident, because we actually have strength," said Najib, whose popularity has taken a hit from rising costs and a graft scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib has consistently denied any wrongdoing over the billions of dollars allegedly siphoned off from the state fund, which he founded, and he has been cleared of any offence by Malaysia's attorney general. Najib is set to broadcast live on state media at 1400 GMT. At the same time, Mahathir will livestream his speech from a rally in his constituency in Langkawi. They will be the leaders' final speeches before polls open on Wednesday.

Jailed Malaysian leader Anwar urges voters to pick former nemesis Mahathir

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