Is Dr Mahathir Mohamad seeking attention in his old age?

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Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is perceived as being provocative due to his age and a consistent pattern of seeking attention.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has stated that former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's recent actions and statements are a result of his old age and a desire to remain relevant. Zahid believes that the 97-year-old Dr Mahathir employs a familiar strategy to provoke others and garner attention, suggesting that these provocations are not surprising given his past behaviour. This perspective emerges in the context of Dr Mahathir's recent accusations against the current administration.
Dr Mahathir's Accusations Against the Government

Recently, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad alleged that the administration led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is attempting to make Malaysia a secular and multi-ethnic nation. In a Facebook post, he claimed that promoting multiracialism contradicts the Federal Constitution, which he argued instead emphasises the "Malayness" of the country. Dr Mahathir further asserted that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is unduly influenced by Members of Parliament from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and contended that the Constitution does not explicitly define Malaysia as a multi-ethnic state.
Zahid's View on Dr Mahathir's Motivations

Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi views Dr Mahathir's provocations as a method to stay alert and engaged with life, particularly given his advanced age. Zahid indicated that he would not overly react to Dr Mahathir's statements, as the former prime minister has historically used similar tactics to attract attention. This approach, according to Zahid, is a consistent pattern employed by Dr Mahathir.
The Use of Provocation as a Template

Zahid suggested that Dr Mahathir's current actions follow a recognisable "template" that he has used previously. This tactic is perceived as a means for the former prime minister to remain in the public eye and to provoke reactions from others. Zahid implied that this continuous need to provoke is a way for Dr Mahathir to maintain a sense of purpose in his life.
Government's Stance on Provocative Statements

While acknowledging Dr Mahathir's provocations, Zahid indicated that the Prime Minister would likely respond to the specific accusations made. Zahid himself expressed a reluctance to engage directly with the provocations, choosing instead to focus on his ministerial duties. This suggests an official strategy of not escalating rhetoric with the former prime minister.

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Is Dr Mahathir Mohamad seeking attention in his old age?

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