Tribute to Mahathir

Here's my tribute to the man who brought Malaysia from Third World to somewhere in between the Third and Developed, Dato Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, who is officially a retired government servant starting tomorrow, the 31st of October 2003: "For all that you've done; the development, the vision and the achievements. For all that we remember you for: the far-sighted economic rescue plan, the Anwar incident, the controversy you've caused to the world through your speeches and the aid restriction imposed upon us by the US Senate, we nevertheless concede that there has been no other Malaysian leader as capable as you have been and you have left an undelible legacy in Malaysia's history. That is our recognition for your timeless contribution." Here are some things CNN has to say about the leader: Mahathir: A Tough Act To Follow Here are some quotes i found interesting. Read on! On accusation that he was a dictator: "This is the first dictator in the world who has resigned while still quite healthy." On his effort to create the Malaysian nation, or "Bangsa Malaysia" of racial unity-in-diversity: "There were times when I was elated with what I thought was my success. But mostly I feel disappointed, because I achieved too little result from my principal task, the task of making my race a race that is respected, a race that is honorable, a race that is highly regarded." And on free trade and an open economy: "Variety is the spice of life. The spice is fast disappearing as we stay in Hilton Hotels, eat McDonald's hamburgers, drive in a Ford car, bank with Citibank and buy our household needs from Carrefour." "Exploit us, but exploit us fairly." Thank you, Dr. M. Welcome, Pak Lah (incoming Prime Minister Dr. Abdullah Ahmad Badawi)