Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad turned 101 on Friday, drawing an outpouring of tributes and birthday wishes from political leaders, well-wishers and admirers at home and abroad.

Born on July 10, 1925, in Alor Setar, Kedah, Mahathir began his professional career as a physician before entering politics. He later emerged as one of the principal architects of Malaysia’s modernisation and economic transformation.

Mahathir assumed office as Malaysia’s fourth prime minister in 1981 and served for 22 consecutive years until 2003, making him the country’s longest-serving premier. Under his leadership, Malaysia underwent rapid industrialisation, expanded its infrastructure and achieved sustained economic growth.

Many of the country’s landmark development projects were launched or completed during his tenure, including the Petronas Twin Towers, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the North–South Expressway and the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC). His Vision 2020 initiative is also widely regarded as the foundation of Malaysia’s long-term development strategy.

In 2018, Mahathir returned to power at the age of 92, becoming the world’s oldest democratically elected head of government at the time. His political comeback marked a historic chapter in Malaysia’s democratic journey.

Throughout his long public career, Mahathir became known for his firm positions on economic policy, education, governance and foreign affairs. Even after leaving office, he has remained an influential public figure, frequently commenting on national and international issues.

Despite controversies and differing opinions surrounding parts of his political legacy, analysts widely acknowledge Mahathir’s pivotal role in transforming Malaysia into a modern nation. He is therefore often referred to as the architect of modern Malaysia.

On his 101st birthday, political leaders, people from all walks of life and ordinary Malaysians wished him good health and a long life. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also extended birthday greetings, honouring Mahathir’s enduring place in the country’s history.

More than a century after his birth, Mahathir remains not only a towering political figure but also an inseparable part of Malaysia’s nation-building and development story.