Dr M's visit to Kota Iskandar draws the crowd

10 June 2010 , By New Straits Times

AS a former leader known for his immense contributions to the country, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's illustrious background has garnered him legions of admirers, young and old.

The man was idolised for his sharp intellect in managing the country to greater heights, thus placing her on the world's map. There was a saying, "it was Dr Mahathir who had brought Malaysia to the world".

The former prime minister was also remembered for his unyielding effort in promoting racial harmony and has always reminded the Malays especially, that disunity could only bring down the country.

During his recent visit to Johor, Dr Mahathir spent time meeting his supporters and Umno members. He also visited the newly-opened state administrative centre in Kota Iskandar. His audience were left in awe of Dr Mahathir's words of wisdom.

At the opening of the Malaysian Association Youth Clubs (MAYC) veterans' gathering at Hotel M Suites in Johor Baru, Dr Mahathir told Umno members to be responsible in charting the party's course, which would subsequently strenghten Malaysia's future in the advent of Vision 2020.

Also present was Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman and MAYC president Tan Sri Sanusi Junid. Some 1,000 people attended the function to listen to the ex-premier's views about current political and economic issues.

He also took some requests for photo opportunities from his fans, who had been waiting for his arrival since early morning.

In his speech, Dr Mahathir reminded that Umno members should be brave enough to point out their leaders' errors to secure a better future for the Malays and the people.

He said keeping mum despite being fully aware of a mistake being made by a leader, would lead the party to its downfall.

"If we are honest in our struggle to keep the party relevant and alive, then by all means it is not wrong for us to advise our leaders that there are things not being done right.

"We are doing this for the future of the Malays and the people. The unity among Malays can be the backbone of the country's racial harmony.

"If something wrong takes place, you should not blame the leader alone, but also yourselves," Dr Mahathir said to the thunderous applause.

Dr Mahathir said there were those who chose not to voice out the erroneous ways of their leaders due to vested interests.

"When that happens, the rakyat will turn against us and Umno will lose its clout. And that was what happened in 2008 general elections, where Barisan Nasiona lost five states to our rival."

Later Dr Mahathir also made a visit to Kota Iskandar -- Johor's new administrative centre in Nusajaya -- which is considered by many as an endorsement to the Iskandar Malaysia project he had once staunchly opposed.

Kota Iskandar spans 128ha with landscaped gardens and parks, and it is located 30km from Johor Baru.

Also housed in the administrative capital is the State Assembly Hall, the Menteri Besar and State Secretary Complex, Mahkota Square ceremonial plaza and the State Government departments complex that was completed last year.

Dr Mahathir was among the biggest critics of the project which was launched during his immediate successor Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's administration.

He made it clear during his visit that he had never opposed the Iskandar Malaysia project and agreed with the concept of having a special area developed for economic purposes.

"I questioned whether it will bring benefit to the people. If it can be proven that it can benefit Malaysians, then I will support."